A Martyr’s Grace By Marvin J Newell – Southeast Asia & Latin America:
What story grabbed your heart and why?
Arthur Francis Tylee’s story stood out to me, not only in these sections but in the entire book. His sheer grit and determination to bring the gospel to an unreached people group are inspiring, and in some ways, it reminds me of the apostle Paul.
Arthur made three attempts to reach the Nhambiquara in the jungle of Brazil. Like Paul and his three missionary journeys, tests and trials faced Arthur every step of the way as he trekked through the grueling jungle conditions, and there is little doubt that his very life was at stake in bringing the gospel to this remote tribe.
On his third attempt, and newlywed at that, Arthur and his wife Ethel finally reached their goal. And roughly three years later, Arthur and his baby daughter would be slain by the very people he tried desperately to save.
If only we all had the drive and determination that Arthur had. So often we face hardship, or are met with opposition, so we turn back and say, “well, at least I tried.” Not so for Arthur. We can clearly see his determination, no matter the cost, in his story and in his martyrdom.
What is your mission field?
Honestly, I’m not sure at this point. I am currently, though the process has been a bit slow to start, pursuing a certificate in Christian Apologetics, with the intent of teaching it to others. I’m still unsure whether or not this is where God is calling me, although I have to say that He has certainly gone above and beyond to encourage and provide along the way so far.
One thing I do feel sure of, in regards to my mission field, is that it involves teaching to some degree or another. I’ve always enjoyed teaching others, and, as stated above, I’ve been greatly encouraged by others in recent months to teach, at least in some capacity.
What is your assignment right now in life?
This answer is a bit two-fold.
First and foremost, my assignment in life has always been, and always will be, to my family. To love my wife like Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25), and to bring up my children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).
However, in regards to where I believe this question is leading, I think my other assignment in life, missionally speaking, is to 23 Ministry. I believe that what we are doing in this group is laying the foundation for what is to come. Therefore, my priority is to have a sure footing as I take the next steps in my missionary journey. Whether that be apologetics, or teaching, or teaching apologetics, or wherever else, God may lead between now and the next ten months.
Are you sold out for your mission field?
I want to think so. That said, I could certainly do better. However, I believe I can honestly say that, next to my relationship with Christ and my commitment to my family, 23 Ministry has certainly been my top priority for the past eight months.
I want to say the same regarding the apologetics training and teaching mentioned above, but I have to prioritize, and I have to have balance or the things at the top of the list begin to suffer. And as mentioned previously, I am now laying the foundation for the things to come. I do my best to squeeze these things in when I can, but at least for the time being, they have to take a back seat.