You ever wonder if you’re actually saved? Do you think you’ll go to heaven once your earthly body has ceased to function?
In the rural and beautiful Okavango Delta village of Seronga, Botswana, villagers we visited with were asked these questions about their faith in Christ.
Reactions and responses varied of course, yet everyone will tell you they are Christian and this is a Christian nation. Botswana may be a Christian nation, and most of these people may know about God, but I would be hard pressed to declare all who claimed Christianity people who say they are saved through faith in Christ.
One lady I’ve talked to for a few days has an understanding of scripture and prays everyday – which she said may get her into heaven. When we showed her scripture about the steps to salvation, she ascertained that following God’s laws and the works you do in this life is the key to a heavenly reward. This is a common realm of thinking among the people of Botswana. We gave her a Setswana Bible and proceeded to go through the gospel of John in the following days.
It’s also common to meet people who are too focused on the rewards God gives them in their time on Earth than the salvation of their soul. For example, good health and a steady income. In our evangelism, we focused on how God cares for our eternal soul more than anything.
It’s common to find Christians in Botswana who only go to church 3 times a year. Just as common are those who rely solely on their preacher for biblical instruction. The needle in the haystack are locals who conduct their own bible studies. This results in a skewed view of the foundation of Christianity and the key to salvation.
I’m so glad these people will go as far to proclaim they are Christians, but when they give their explanation, it’s obvious so many of them are still lost.
Our host has lived in the area for 15 years and knows almost everyone in the surrounding village. After we leave, his plan is to follow up with those who were receptive to the gospel we shared. He is an exceptionally hospitable host who cares deeply for us and the villagers of Seronga. The first few days of the month were centered around evangelism training specifically for the villagers of Seronga.
If anyone expresses interest in a Setswana bible, then our host gives them one. We write down scriptures in their bible referring to the salvation of our soul through the free gift of Christ to study in between our visits.
Asking them if they will go to heaven if they die right this second seems like a harsh question, but the salvation of our soul is a reality we all have to face.
Stay Classy,
Daniel
