The Truth Shall Set You Free

Javier started to visit a village hours away from the city and implemented a chronological Bible study through the use of an interpreter. Listening intently to the stories, the villagers began to realize how the truths being taught affected their daily lives. For instance, after learning about where demons come from and that God has greater power, they were no longer afraid to go to the high places around the village where evil spirits were believed to live. Now children play on the hilltops while guarding their grazing sheep.

Not long afterward, during a service a big discussion erupted. An elderly lady began by shouting something, after which everyone seemed to be talking at once. Javier, not understanding, just stood looking from one to the other and asking, "What are they saying? What are they saying?" Finally the interpreter began to explain to Javier that the older lady was upset when she shouted, "We've been deceived! Our ancestors always told us to sacrifice to mother earth, and paint our animals during the festival of San Juan . Now we know the truth. What can we do?"

All at once others agreed with the woman and gave their own opinions. Eventually a decision was made. They formed a circle and prayed, asking God to forgive them for not following what the Bible teaches. The power of the Holy Spirit came down in a mighty way in response to collective confession and repentance. All this happened not as a suggestion by Javier, but rather by the people realizing on their own their circumstance before God!

- Bill and Karen , Bolivia

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