As the Guanano believers studied the book of Acts, they were prompted to begin reaching out to their friends. But their efforts were met with rejection.
Mario said it has been particularly difficult. Whenever he tries to get his friends to think about the Gospel they tell him, "We know God. You're not telling us anything we don't know."
It's a typical response for people that have been inundated by religious groups -- each with a different plan for getting to heaven.
When missionaries asked the believers to think about how they had come to put their trust in Christ alone for salvation, Cristina and Herman remembered some of the obstacles to understanding the truth.
Cristina said she never knew she was carrying "bad stuff" around inside of her until she heard the story of Adam and Eve and learned that she has a sin nature and can't fix it herself. As she listened to evangelistic Bible teaching she realized Jesus was the only one who could save her.
Herman spoke about the confusion in his spiritual understanding. There was no assurance of salvation. He was told to try his best and in the end he would find out if it was good enough; that God knows who's going to heaven, but you don't find out until after you die.
"He said the Gospel cleared up the confusion in his mind," wrote missionary Lindy Drake. "He had to admit he was in far worse shape spiritually than he thought. But what a relief to cast all that nasty burden in the arms of a powerful Savior."
As the missionaries teach Romans, the Guananos are learning about who they are in Christ.
Pray that as they learn how God has enabled them to walk with Him, He will grant them wisdom to effectively reach out to their friends.
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