The Christian faith has indeed been strong in some places and regions, and later that moves to another place. There is no permanent stronghold. Recently, one mission leader visited a region where the gospel was not able to make a breakthrough. Many great missionaries and saints have toiled in that area. Many Christian institutions have existed for nearly two centuries. Yet, very few disciples in that region.
Intellectualism: This region has contributed to humanity, with a few good thinkers. Yet, all of them consider themselves super-intelligent and refuse to listen to the truth. They look down upon Christians as less intelligent, if not as fools. God chooses the foolish and weak in the world’s perspective to shame the wise and the strong. (I Corinthians 1:27)
Cultural Pride: For many people around the world, their culture is supreme, better than others, and even divine. Hence, they have pride in their culture and oppose the gospel that examines and evaluates the culture. For them, culture is superior to the gospel, the Bible, and even God. And also, they consider the gospel as foreign to their belief system.
Ancestor worship: In most cultures, ancestor worship is common, and it is more so in this culture. Those who die are given the status of gods and goddesses. They are feared, adored, appeased, and worshipped. Whatever the ancestors believed or said is taken as a sacred saying or scripture. So, they reject God’s New Covenant, offered through the gospel.
Blood sacrifice: In this culture, there is a predominant practice of blood sacrifice. Animals are sacrificed during worship and annual festivals. Even some ardent devotees cut their fingers and offer human blood as a sacrifice. Sadly, they believe such a blood sacrifice would earn them a place in heaven. The blood of animals can’t take away sins. (Hebrews 10:4) God sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to make atonement by shedding His blood, died, was buried, and rose again on the third day. The blood of Christ cleanses us from all sins. (I John 1:7)
Do I realize there is no other way for salvation except through Christ?