Coffee Break Discipleship in Indonesia

Pastor Timotius Dawir from Papua had been praying for three years for Bible study resources to help people in his community grow in faith. When he learned about Coffee Break* Bible study training coming to Manado, Indonesia, he traveled twenty-six hours by bus, boat, and plane to participate in the workshop.

From October 1-13, 2011 Coffee Break leaders from North America partnered with Rev. Untung Ongkowidjaya and his wife, Ivany, to provide training for 140 church leaders. The workshops were scheduled to take place in four strategic locations throughout Indonesia, but the trainers ended up leading two additional workshops.

Because of flight delays, Pastor Dawir arrived ten minutes after the Manado workshop concluded. Appreciating his efforts, three members of the training team met with Pastor Dawir that evening to provide a mini-training. So convinced that Coffee Break Bible study is an effective method of outreach, Pastor Dawir invited the team to come to Papua next year to train leaders there. “I am sure I can arrange for training in three locations with thirty participants in each place,” he promised. Tentative plans are in place for an April, 2012 training on Biak Island in Papua. 

A second spontaneous training took place in Jakarta just before the North American trainers were scheduled to return home. Indonesian Pastor Bigman Sirait learned about the Coffee Break Bible study method over a lunch meeting and invited the trainers to introduce these materials to members of his church. Sixteen participants gathered on very short notice for that training!

Participants who attended gave evidence of the vibrant Christian community in Indonesia. And many expressed the urgent need for Christian resources. The Christian community in Indonesia is very concerned with education and Bible study; however, few Bible study materials are available to them. Many Indonesians, especially the younger generation, have no deep religious beliefs, but they are open to the Gospel. The Coffee Break Bible study method is a valuable resource for teaching people to read and study the Bible.

Praise God that leaders from more than sixteen denominations attended the five training events. “It was very tiring, but very rewarding to meet with people who have the same vision and want to work together for the glory of God,” commented Rev. Untung. “Please continue to pray for and support our ministry in Indonesia, because we know that many people in Indonesia are thirsty to know more about the truth in Christ.”

*Coffee Break has been a successful Bible study outreach for women in North America since the 1970s. The events in Indonesia mark an exciting new partnership between Back to God Ministries International and other mission organizations to bring this community-based outreach to Indonesia. Coffee Break provides discipleship and fellowship opportunities that change hearts and lives—for both men and women—as seekers find a safe place to ask questions about Jesus and the hope of salvation.