It Takes a Team!

 

Thailand has the infamous white temple, China has the great wall, Italy has the colosseum, and so on. Every country has something that was built to be unique and important. The beauty of these construction draws many people to visit and enjoy the finished product; many overlook the resources, time, effort and other things that went into producing these unique structures. On top of this, it takes a lot of people working together to accomplish such great works. In similar ways, the mission work requires much planning, praying, and implementing. It takes a team to expand His Kingdom!

The past couple of months we have been packed with tasks and projects! First, the new batch of leaders has started their studies with us at Asia International Seminary (AIS). Every month, they come to live with us for a week and study the Word with us. We are glad to have such a caliber of teachers from America to help teach our classes. Derek taught the book of James, Jeremiah taught 1 Thessalonians, and David taught Ephesians. It has been a wonderful experience as the students are all enjoying the gleaning of the biblical knowledge. They are very receptive and have said that these were some of the best classes they have had.

Stephen teaching the new group of students

The students spend much of their break
diligently studying

With limited bedrooms, some of the students
have to sleep in the office

Several groups of church leaders, ministers, evangelists, and teachers are in line to come and study at AIS from various ethnic groups- Lisu, Lahu, Hmong, Kamu and from countries for instance, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and even Cambodia. Due to the limitation of the space, teachers, and resources, they are waiting for their turn. Over one hundred church leaders throughout Myanmar and China are studying via online means, at this moment. Please pray for this important ministry in order to carry out the Great Commission of Jesus Christ: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you” (NASB).

In Laos, the spread of the gospel has been like wildfire. In one case, an ethnic Kamu evangelist planted many churches in Laos, and many have turned to Christ. Unfortunately, he was murdered because there are many who are against Christianity in Laos, even though it is considered one of the legal religions. This has encouraged many evangelists in Laos to continue His magnificent work, while some are beginning to fear for their lives. Please continue to pray for God’s Kingdom to expand.

Additionally, AFC teamed up with IDES to support displaced people with the escalation of war in Northern Myanmar. Prior to the past month, battles in the country were predominantly in low populous areas such as jungles or open fields. Recently, the fighting impacted smaller villages on the outskirts of the large city like Myitkyina. This caused thousands of people to be displaced, some internally while others had to flee into China. Through the partnership with IDES, we delivered funds to help buy food and provided relief packages which would help families get through a couple of months while they plan their next steps. It is always wonderful to also see the local churches and their members step up to help the displaced people in the best way they can. 

Stephen, Mary, and Nick made their way to the Thai and Myanmar border to connect with the team in Myanmar who continued the project in Myanmar. The other project to aid the displaced on the Chinese side was conducted by Nick as he traveled into Laos and all the way into China to meet with the local Christian leaders who are ready to serve. It was a very long trip, but all the funds were distributed safely to the right hands. According to ACAPS, a humanitarian analysis organization, an estimated 17.6 million people are in humanitarian need, including 4.5 million with severe needs, primarily in rural conflict-affected areas. Please continue to pray for those in need; when it comes to war, everyone is affected. Through these relief works, many experience the love of Christ through these acts, and many people have come to have a relationship with Christ. We, AFC, are extremely excited to have more people and churches partnering with us. It takes a team, led by God, to expand His Kingdom in Southeast Asia and China.

The displaced in a city in Northern Myanmar

A family receiving a food package

Nick with the Chinese Team

Family News:

Isaac is now a senior in high school and has a great interest in computers. He is a very creative person and did a lot of projects including non-invasive glucose monitoring device, smart water billing app with analysis on usage or problems with water, and a small-scale rocket in which the mission was to reach the highest point along with the ejection (at the highest point) of the “cansat” (inner compartments) in order to collect data about the weather whilst having to protect an egg from breaking. He is currently searching for a university in the USA as well as in Southeast Asia to continue his education. Much appreciated for lifting him up in your prayers!

Isaac's rocket project receives awards

Mary has been busy taking care of student-leaders and guests. Without her assistance, our mission base would not be able to accomplish many tasks as smoothly as it has been. Becky is assisting Nick with the teaching English through the Bible via zoom. They meet every Saturday. She is also helping with the mission’s accounting. Nick has passed his Master’s proposal exam and is now currently submitting his proposal to the ethics committee. After the ethics committee approves, then he can begin doing his research on mental health and Christians in Thailand, one of the first research of its kind in Asia.

Stephen was invited to encourage a church
celebrating its 25 year anniversary

Nick during his Master's proposal exam

Here is a message from John:

I am excited to share with you all that Anna and I will be heading back to Thailand! Just a quick update, Anna and I were in Missouri the past couple of years and while we were there, Anna has been struggling with her health. Last year, we visited Thailand and while we were there for a brief time, Anna’s health improved dramatically. With much prayer and talking, we decided to venture back to Thailand in hopes that either the change of diet or a fresh new start will be able to help Anna. I am hoping to work at a local school or tutoring center while being able to help alongside the missions during my free time. We are so excited to finally be with family and serving alongside them! Prayers that our transition will be smooth, and we will be able to settle well!

Cultivating Biblically-Grounded Leadership

 

In these uncertain times, when the world around us seems to be constantly shifting, the role of Christian leaders has never been more crucial. I know it can feel totally overwhelming for those of us in the church, as we face a dizzying array of challenges - from complex ethical dilemmas to thorny social justice issues, all while trying our best to maintain our personal integrity and uphold sound doctrine. The pressure can sometimes feel unbearable, leaving us unsure of how to navigate these turbulent waters.

But friends, take heart, because we've got an unshakable foundation upon which to build - the enduring, life-giving Word of God. As 1 Peter 1:25 reminds us, "The word of the Lord endures forever." This eternal truth's has to be the bedrock that grounds and sustains our Christian leadership.

  The first group of students for 2024

Studying His Word together!

                                                              Enjoying a meal together!

You see, the Bible isn't just any old book. It's the very breath of God, reaching beyond the boundaries of time and culture to provide us with timeless wisdom, moral clarity, and profound spiritual insight. Its pages are alive and active, cutting right to the heart of our deepest needs and struggles. For leaders, Scripture doesn't just offer the core tenets of our faith - it gives us practical, life-giving principles to lead with integrity, compassion, and discernment.

I'm reminded of Paul's words to Timothy: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Oh, how we need that kind of equipping in these complex times! When we root ourselves in the steadfast Word of God, we're better equipped to navigate the stormy seas of moral ambiguity and false teaching.

The joy of studying the Bible

The Scriptures become our reliable compass, shaping not only our identity, but also the very mission and vision of the churches we serve. Right now, I know there are countless Christian leaders across Southeast Asia - in places like Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam - who are hungry and ready to receive this training. They're eager to be grounded in the truth of God's Word, so they can stand firm in their faith and lead their communities effectively.

Unfortunately, due to facility limitations, we can only accommodate 10 people per training group, leaving dozens more still waiting. But friends, I believe this is a critical ministry that requires the active participation and support of the global Christian community. Would you prayerfully consider partnering with us, whether through financial resources, volunteered time, or fervent prayer?

When we come together to equip these leaders, we're investing in a legacy of biblically-grounded leadership that will endure for generations to come. The world may be in constant flux, but the Word of God remains our firm foundation. As Christian leaders root themselves in its eternal truths, they'll find the wisdom, strength, and grace needed to shepherd God's people and advance His kingdom with purpose and power.

The students from various parts of Thailand/Myanmar

Will you join us in this crucial work? I believe the eternal impact we can make together will be beyond our wildest dreams. The stakes are high, but the rewards are eternal. Let's rise up and build a generation of leaders who will stand firm on the solid rock of God's Word, come what may.

                                              Stephen's visiting a church during the weekend

Yours in Christ,

Stephen and the AFC team

Making Disciples!

 Jesus says “Behold, I tell you, raise your eyes and observe the fields, that they are white for harvest. Already he who reaps is receiving wages and is gathering fruit for life eternal; so that he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together (John 4:35-36: NASB).”

 The year of 2024 has started with abundant blessings from God in numerous ways. The highlight was a graduation ceremony finally being held on March 15, 2024. We had graduate students from different regions, except students from Laos who already had a graduation ceremony in January. We had students from Myitkyina, Lashio, and Laukkai of Myanmar, where severe battles are still going on and, of course, from Thailand. Students from Myanmar had to travel for 5 days and 4 nights (rather than a typical day trip) because of the constant fighting all the way to the border of Thailand. The graduate students consisted of recent and past groups ranging from 2011-2024. Sadly, some students passed away during the pandemic. They have gone before us to receive the crown of life (rather than a diploma) in front of a myriad of angels directly from our almighty God’s hands. Some of the other students could not make it because of the continual fighting in Myanmar and personal health problem.

Many of the graduates' friends and family attended

A blessed day for all

Derek was able to come to Thailand encourage everyone

One of our students, Samuel, is in his late adulthood. Covid-19 has destroyed most of his lungs and his heartbeat is about 40bpm. He can’t sit for over 30 minutes; otherwise, he would pass out. He told everybody that he has been praying to God to go through this ceremony before going home to be with God. He has been proud to study at AIS where helping him find “home” in the Scripture, the Word of God. Praise the Lord!

AIS’s mission is equipping Christian leaders by teaching the Scripture, God’s Word: we speak, where the Bible speaks; and we are silent, where the Bible is silent. Moreover, students of AIS come from different countries, ethnic groups and denominations. More students from Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam are applying at the moment for the coming classes of 2024. Please remember AIS in your prayers!

Several were baptized into Christ!

 Thanks to churches and friends who have faithfully been praying and supporting Asians For Christ in carrying out the Great Commission by evangelizing to the lost, equipping Christian leaders and empowering native churches throughout Southeast Asia and China. Without your faithful partnering, we would not be able to do whatever we had done. Special thanks to those visiting professors throughout the course, Dean Hammond and Derek Voorhees and to every one of the online teachers. Your sacrifices of time and monetary giving are deeply appreciated. We always look forward to your partnering in teaching. We also would like to invite many others to partner with us for making disciples in Southeast Asia and China. If you have a desire to do missions or would even like to help serve in any way, feel free to reach out to me (Stephen) or anyone at AFC. You are always welcome to come along and serve with us in sharing God’s Kingdom to the people in SE Asia and China.   

Vision of 2030

The mission work of Asians For Christ and Asia International Seminary is expanding beyond Thailand, Myanmar, and China, going into Laos and even Vietnam. In the past, Stephen and Nicholas brought the Good News of Jesus’s redemption all the way from the north of Sangri-la, the former Tibet at the origin of Salween River in China, to Thailand at the south. From Vietnam in the east to India in the west through evangelizing, equipping, and empowering with a wholistic ministry.

Praying for members of a new house church

Asia International Seminary has trained 30 evangelists from Laos, 15 from Thailand, 10 from Myanmar, and 90 in China to be rooted in the Scripture: To speak where the Bible speaks, to be silent where the Bible is silent! In fact, the graduation for master students will be held this upcoming March 16, 2024. Please lift up students from Myanmar who will travel to Thailand to attend this graduation ceremony. Pray for their safeties because war still rages in their country.   In addition, besides the group of Christian preachers, pastors and evangelists in Myanmar, a group of Christian leaders from Laos and Vietnam has requested for us to offer them Bible courses through Asia International Seminary (a seminary without borders).   

New Bible Graduates in Laos

Stephen teaching Revelation to the Thai students 

Moreover, there are still millions of people who have not heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Not to mention other ethnic groups along with the Lisu people; 2/3 of Lisu people have not been reached even to this day. Almost 300,000 Lisu in Sangri-La, 50,000 in Sichuan, 50,000 in Baosang and several thousands in the Salween basin have not heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ yet.

Particularly, along the Salween basin in Myanmar, they are still growing opium and worshipping the evil spirits. In addition, not only do the Lisu people live in these areas, there are many other indigenous people who live in Salween River who share in very similar cultures and contexts. For instance, there are other indigenous groups of people like the Lahu and Ahka, Shan and Wa. What about Hmong, Mian (Yao), Khamu and Laotians in Laos, Thai Dum and Vietnamese at the northern part of Vietnam? There are many still who have not heard the Good News!

Asians For Christ strives to proclaim Jesus to all the ethnic groups by training them with the sound doctrine and sending local evangelists into every village; planting churches, making disciples, and teaching the Bible and different life skills. AFC is also encouraging and supporting them to use their gifts to reach others and to glorify God. The potential evangelists, staff and plans are all ready to start, but we lack the funds to initiate this great vision for Christ.

With your monetary resources, we could upscale the ministry so that we would be able to reach out to every single village and indigenous people for Christ according to Matthew 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the ethnic people, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” To continue to fulfill this Great Commission of Jesus, we ask that you please pray, join, and support us so that every lost soul will hear the Gospel of Jesus and accept Jesus as their own Lord and Savior.

Further updates

In January, David, Francis and Sandra came to visit us from Kaimuki Christian Church. It was wonderful to have people come visit our various ministries. The last time we had visitors from the States was before the Covid 19 pandemic. These three came and joined our ministry as they encouraged, taught, and preached at several churches, to groups of students and to the field workers in Thailand and Laos. We are very blessed to have a partnering team come and join us in our ministries. This short-term missions group has encouraged us to continue to do our best on the various mission fields. If there is anyone or any group that would like to make a short-term mission’s trip, you are welcome to come anytime!

David teaching leadership to the Thai students

Visiting the local school

Mary serving food at the school

 

Packing snacks for the kids

The kids love the snacks!

Preaching to a Lisu church in Chiang Mai

Nick encouraging the public school kids

Nick translating Francis' encouragement to the Lisu in Church

Count Your Blessings! HNY 2024

Count your blessings, name them one by one.

Count your blessings, see what God has done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one.

Count your many blessings see what God has done.

It’s time for us to count the blessings that God has poured into our lives, especially in 2023. Many times, it is easy to take blessings for granted. One can fall into comfort from own achievements. We can be ignorant in the face of His blessings and lack gratitude for His Grace which was demonstrated through His Son, Jesus. These are the reasons we reflect on the year so that we can capture and remember His work through our lives.

Stephen giving a sermon at the Christmas conference

Christmas conference in Chiang Dao

We have been blessed beyond our imaginations. In each year, we are able to share the Good News of Jesus who died on the cross on behalf of our sins to thousands of people who are lost and have no chance to hear, read and study His Word, the Scripture. Yes, people need to hear the Gospel of Jesus’ redemption. Without Jesus Christ, there is no salvation! Sadly, we are short of Christian workers and evangelists particularly those who are trained and rooted in the Word of God. In the past year, we offered intensive classes for Christian workers at the masters level both onsite and online, emphasizing God’s Word, the Scripture so that they will be able to apply the Bible into their own culture and context in Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and China.

One of the students in Thailand earned two doctoral degrees: Buddhology (indeed, he was a Buddhist monk) and Theology. But he felt that his Bible knowledge was too shallow. In other words, he did not know the Scripture. So, he requested us to teach him nothing else except the Bible. Now, he is very enthusiastic in the mission works, evangelism in particular.

Besides the class room setting, we (students and I) have formed an evangelistic team to carry out the Great Commission to various remote villages in Thailand. In the past year alone, we built one church, two are on the process of church construction and two are gathering at houses. One of the villages in particular is Lapatha. This village has been known to persecute Christian. Even many non-Christians have lost their lives in this village with other reasons. It is considered a dangerous village. They will literally stone any person who wants to accept Jesus and severely threatened evangelists who tried to evangelize to this village. Almost three decades, Christianity could not reach this village. Praise the Lord! In the past year, our team started to target this village. With much prayers and evangelistic efforts, many people have accepted Jesus Christ as their own Lord and Savior, and many families from this village tore down and burned their spirit altars and were baptized. Now we are starting the process of planting a church in this village. This is the true blessing from our Living Lord and God!

Stephen and the students visiting villages in the mountain

The mountains get really cold

Even the remote village 

Mission works in Myanmar

As many of you have known that Myanmar has been facing civil unrest. The fighting is spreading over many parts throughout the country. In the midst of this unrest situation, our online Bible class continues, in fact, it is growing. Several prominent Christian leaders: pastors, preachers, evangelists, students and even governors have attended this online classes. In addition, there are about 70 preachers and evangelists from the Shan state of Myanmar who want to take Bible classes with us. We are now in the process of discussing where to hold classes and how many should enroll in each class.

In the midst of severe fighting in the northern part of Shan state of Myanmar, the ethnic group of people from the southern part of Shan state of Myanmar called us. This part of Myanmar perhaps is among the few places where there is no fighting. Two times this year, Mary and Stephen crossed the border at Maesai into Tachileik of Myanmar to feed the disadvantaged children and orphans.

Clothing ministry

Villagers picking winter clothes for the cold season

Our team reaching out to the Ahka tribe in the border
of Thailand and Myanmar

Mission works Laos

Yes, God is moving in Laos! Our mission works is growing and the number of Christians has increased. In each year, God has blessed our mission works tremendously. Every village and town we went, God had already pathed the way for us. Our gratitude goes to IDES who are partnering with Asians for Christ. This partnership has opened people’s heart, even the local leaders to cooperate in our mission works. Now, our campus ministry is constructing a house for college students. We are hoping that such building will become, not only for housing the college students, but also the place for reaching out many lost students and neighbors, the place for training Christian leaders, and the place for worshipping God.

The College Students planting some vegetables

Building a little chicken coop

The foundations for the new Campus Center in Laos

Family

Mary’s clothing ministry has created great opportunities for evangelism to various ethnic people including Shan, Wa, Lahu and Ahka in Shan state of Myanmar. Stephen is continuing to enjoy his biblical studys. After spending a year studying Isaiah, he is working on Ezekiel while trying to complete his commentary on Romans and John’s Gospel. He is also enjoying teaching and evangelizing to various ethnic groups of people in Southeast Asia and China. Nick has one more semester to complete his class before writing his thesis. While studying, he also takes care of planning and organizing all the mission works. Becky is helping Nick teach online classes and help her mom with the house chores. Isaac is competing in an invention event in which he is making an automated physiotherapy device for canine rehabilitation. Your faithfulness in prayerful and financial supports for our family and ministry is much appreciated. We are always counting them as God’s blessings and praise Him for providing great partners!

Nick giving a presentation on Mental health

Mary and Becky spending time with the kids in the village