Terefe is an Evangelist that was in our Taffo training. He was one of the men that was part of the persecution of believers during the Dergue Communist Regime in Ethiopia.
The Communist Regime fell 36 Years ago and a new freedom came into Ethiopia. Before the Communist came into power, the religious landscape was dominated by the Muslims and the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. After the fall of Communism there was a new religious freedom. Although Muslims and Orthodox still had influence, it no longer had a monopoly on the religious landscape.
Evangelicals began growing dynamically in Ethiopia. Their message of Freedom in Christ and the celebratory nature of their worship resonated with Ethiopians and many Evangelical denominations grew quickly.
Because of the celebratory nature of worship and the emotional high of the new found freedom in Christ as well as a national new found freedom, much of the Evangelical growth was more emotion driven than theologically based.
Evangelist Terefe told of persecution during the times of secret Bible Study and prayer. He spoke of a tangible presence of God's Power during the times of persecution.
He said that today's Ethiopian Church lacked that power because there was no commitment to Bible Study. He said his hope was that this new emphasis on preaching the Word of God would bring the power of God back into the Churches.
A quote, "How the the preacher preach what he does not know? How can he know if he is not taught? We now have been taught! We now know! We are now responsible to God!"
His words resonated around the room. There was a palpable silence. People began to weep and cry out to God.
It was a Holy Moment that hopefully stirs a journey back to God and His Word.
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