‘Twice a day the missionaries preached a formal sermon to large crowds, and each sermon was invariably followed by a discussion which lasted in some cases several hours. In fact the Christian workers spent most of their time answering questions or preaching. Buddhist priest and others came to hear them, as well as laymen of every class, “So many in fact that the house was nearly full and often could not contain all who wanted to come in.”’ A History of Christianity in Japan, by Richard H. Drummond page. 42.
About six years ago, I studied at Japan Lutheran College and Seminary in Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan. It was a wonderful experience and met many great friends. At the college, one of the classes that I took was the History of Christianity in Japan. I loved learning about the early Jesuit mission in Japan beginning with Saint Francis Xavier. While that mission endeavor came with many challenges there was great success in drawing people to Christ.
The early missionaries no doubt did house worship as a means of reaching out with the gospel. Gathering at a house in Japan and the Word and Sacraments went hand in hand. Teaching God’s Word and Sacraments were fundamental to the Jesuit mission in Japan and it’s important for House Church planting today. It’s really neat to read that how the House Church in Japan was so successful that they were sometimes to full to fit everyone in. I guess they needed to plant more house churches!
Not only was house worship an important part for the Jesuit missionary in Japan but what gave strength to their mission work was their mercy ministry. “Perhaps more effective than their theological explanations were their persons. The selfless sacrificial love and concern which they showed to every man gave to their answers an existential force beyond their rational power.” Drummond p. 42.
Mercy ministry brings worship beyond the ex opera operato, (seeing and observing) to believing and following (discipleship) and it plays a key role also in making disciples of all nations.
Perhaps that house worship and mercy ministry could be a strong evangelism approach, especially as we reach out with the Gospel in our more diverse communities today. Just something to ponder.
Peace and love in Christ,
Matt Hass
The foundation of Christian theology is expressed in the early ecumenical creeds which contain claims predominantly accepted by followers of the Christian faith. These professions state that Jesus suffered, died, was buried, and was subsequently resurrected from the dead in order to grant eternal life to those who believe in him and trust him for the remission of their sins.-
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