Family Evangelism at Tokyo International Church

August 9-16, 2008 Harajuku, Japan 

The Tokyo International Church located in Harajuku, Tokyo, conducted evangelism from August 9 through 16, 2008.  In a team effort, Chek Yat and Sally Phoon, Education & Family Ministries Directors respectively of the Northern Asia-Pacific Division served as the speakers.  They focused on sharing some secrets of how to make the family “a little heaven upon earth.”  The messages aimed at building stronger families through a better understanding of each other’s needs, personality and communication styles.  One session addressed the why’s and wherefore’s and the how’s of positively disciplining our children as Christ disciplines us.  Interwoven into the various topics were the creation story, the fall and redemption of humankind and how all of this has impacted the family today.  The gospel of salvation and an abundant life even while on this earth made possible by Jesus Christ was shared. 

On Sabbath, August 16, three groups (the Japanese, Spanish and international churches) came together in a combined worship.  All rejoiced as Angela from South America was baptized into the Spanish Church.  The message that day conveyed the Blessed Hope that at the Second Coming, we will see Eden restored with the family of God enjoying the full bliss of a Heaven and Earth made new.

Working with such a diverse group made up of people from all around the world with their special issues was a challenge and a unique experience.  On both Sabbaths, the speakers held discussions with the group—the first Sabbath was for the single youth and the second for the married couples, many of whom had an unbelieving spouse.  The gospel is very clear—no matter what our differences, we can be one in Christ Jesus—we can all be one through His grace alone.