Uganda
One Sunday late in November 2016, a tall, thin man ducked through the doorway of the gathering of Bible Mission Church. It was his first time there. It was also his first time in a church, ever.
Bible Mission Church gathers on the campus of ITMI's International School of Missions (ISM) in Kampala, Uganda.
Sematimba Rashid lives in ISM's neighborhood, where ISM students have a very active presence reaching out and sharing the Good News. He was also a member of the Mosque located less than half a mile from ISM's campus.
How the Body Works Together on God’s Mission
Sematimba shared his story with the newly planted church. He had been given a pamphlet by ISM students on one of their outreach efforts. It explained the Biblical Story of Good News.
He shared that he was struggling with the conflicting stories of Mohammed and Jesus.
But after reading the pamphlet, with the help of one of ISM’s students, Pastor Ronald Muwanguzi, he understood the story of creation, the fall, the promise made and God’s plan for future Restoration.
He also saw this story demonstrated in the lives of the students of ISM, particularly, Pastor Ronald, who invited him to dinner and helped him repair a broken radio. Pastor Ronald’s care for him convinced him Jesus was the true Savior of the world.
He confessed his sins, repented, and accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior!
Sematimba Rashid, Pastor Ronald and ITMI's Muhindo Kawede in front of Mission Bible Church's meeting place.
In 2013, ITMI Board Member, Jon Dekkers and Steve Evers visited ISM and equipped the school with the pamphlets that led Sematimba to believe.
The ISM community and Mission Bible Church continues to disciple the new believer. He is even talking about attending ISM in the near future!
Kawede said of the simple gift of the pamphlets, “Thank you for your prayers and support, and the opportunity you give us to equip leaders to disciple our people.”
About the Author
Summer Kelley is a writer and follower of Jesus living in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband and three kids. She’s had the honor and privilege of telling ITMI’s stories since 2006. Summer loves reading, the outdoors and Coca-Cola Classic.