The Gospel Illuminates New Regions Overseas as TBN's Networks Expand
Sometimes it can be easy for us as 21st century Believers to lose sight of the fact that Jesus’ Great Commission is still far from being fulfilled. What we fail to realize is even in today’s era of mass media distribution, there are still billions who have never heard the Good News of eternal life in Jesus. And it’s not just the lost. Believers everywhere need to be equipped, encouraged, and strengthened by biblical teaching. This is especially true in parts of the world where persecution of Christians is intense. The courageous Believers there need all the support we can give them.
We have to be open to new ways that will minister Jesus’ love to those who desperately need it.
We can’t be limited in our thinking or our creativity in addressing those needs. We have to be open to new ways that will minister Jesus’ love to those who desperately need it. This is what TBN was created and grown by God to do. This is our time. Together with our partners, we must carry the light of the Word into the darkest places on earth. The eternal destinies of millions hinge upon it. Light dispels darkness. Darkness cannot overcome light. That’s why we’re so excited to bring you this report of just some of the most recent developments and opportunities God has brought to us.
Philippines to Receive Christian Broadcasting in Native Tongue
Philippines prepares to access TBN in their native language. |
Our reach in the Philippines is expanding with Omega TV. This beautiful country was already receiving TBN Asia’s signal, but the programming they were receiving was 95% in English. Now, because of a recent breakthrough, Omega TV will broadcast in the native Tagalog language and feature more “local flavor.” They will even receive Hillsong Channel, SMILE, and JUCE programming in their native Tagalog language.
Our goal should always be to remove as many barriers as possible that are keeping people from receiving salvation.
This is a critical development, because over the years we’ve learned it’s easier for people to receive when they hear the Gospel in their own language, rather than reading closed-captioned translations of programs. Our goal should always be to remove as many barriers as possible that are keeping people from receiving salvation.
More Breakthrough in Africa
Matt and Laurie with TBN station managers in front of David Livingstone's statue in Zimbabwe. |
Africa has always been a key to God’s plan in these last days. This continent, with its varied opportunities, challenges, and strategic importance, has always been one of our prime areas of focus.
This was a true manifestation of God’s glory after many years of no progression.
In 2016 we celebrated the long-awaited return of TBN in Africa. This was a true manifestation of God’s glory after many years of no progression. However, that was just the beginning. We knew there were still millions more who would not have access to the Gospel since TBN in Africa is on a distribution platform that requires it to be a paid network. That means only people in Africa who can afford it have access.
Now we’re pleased to announce the launch of TBN MZansi in South Africa. MZansi, a colloquial term for Southern Africa, is TBN’s new distribution platform covering all of Sub-Saharan Africa, reaching 46 of the 54 African nations. This means nearly 1 billion African viewers will have access to the message of hope and grace regardless of their financial situation.
Ray McCauley sits down with Matt and Laurie in Africa. |
Our longtime friend Ray McCauley has always stressed that the Gospel is necessary to bring healing in Africa. As a pastor in South Africa for decades, he’s seen the deep social, economic, and spiritual challenges facing the nation. He even worked with Nelson Mandela to end apartheid. I can still remember years ago Pastor Ray telling my father and me stories of how Mandela would randomly call him from time to time just to talk about life, the Gospel, and what could be done to impact the continent of Africa. Well, I’m pleased to say that these recent developments bring the dreams they had closer to reality.