Asia

India

India is a county rich in history and is commonly known for its important trade routes, vast empires, and number of religions. In recent history, India gradually came to be controlled by the British East India Company in the mid 18th century. India then became independent in 1947 after a period of struggle featuring nonviolent civil disobedience against the British.

Religious freedom is a struggle in this country, which is strictly dominated by Hinduism. The roots of this belief system extend deep into the country’s history. Two of its basic tenets are reincarnation and the caste system. Reincarnation is seen as the road to enlightenment, with the decisions of one life determining the caste into which one is born in the next life. As a result, the caste system is rigidly upheld and viewed as unchangeable. To a system such as this, Christianity brings great freedom.  The Bible affirms the human dignity of all humans and the free invitation for everyone to find salvation in Christ, no matter what their place in life. However, many barriers stand in the way of this message of freedom.

In the recent nationalistic fervor overtaking India, Hinduism has become a platform for Indian pride. Many who follow other religions are being persecuted and harassed by Hindu militants. Persecution is not new to Indian Christians, many of whom were rejected by their own communities when they accepted Christ, but the intensity of the persecution is increasing. Despite this, believers in India are pressing onward and continuing to share the joy of the gospel. In many areas, the flame of the gospel has been kindled and is steadily growing! Over 1,000 churches have been built or are under construction through ICM Partnerships.

No where is the growth of the TMBC more dramatic than in India where thousands meet in groups to be nurtured in their faith.