By Warren Coe
Matthew Parris is a white South African who grew up in what is now called Malawi. Mr. Parris is a confirmed atheist. Several years ago he returned to his country after a forty-five year absence. He saw his people and their need. Here is what he wrote in Britain’s The Times (December 27, 2008).
“I’ve become convinced of the enormous contribution that Christian evangelism makes in Africa: sharply distinct from the work of secular NGOs, government projects and international aid effort. These alone will not do. Education and training alone will not do. In Africa, Christianity changes people’s hearts. It brings a spiritual transformation. The rebirth is real. The change is good.”
“Far from having cowed or confined its converts, their faith appeared to have liberated and relaxed them. There was liveliness, a curiosity, and engagement with the world-directness in their dealings with others—that seemed to be missing in traditional African life. They stood tall.”
Matthew Parris witnessed the power of Christ’s death on the cross and his glorious resurrection. All who repent and believe will experience the life-transforming power of the gospel. Jesus said it like this, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1:15)
Read Matthew Parris’s full article
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