Hope knows no barriers

From the very foundation of the Church, one of the most pressing questions has been how to spread the Good News. We have been given this great gift of salvation, but how do we pass it on to others? 

Throughout our history, God has been faithful to provide a means of communication to spread his Word: from the gift of the Spirit and the languages to teach that were given at Pentecost, and even reaching to today, with modern communication continuing to give new opportunities to pass on the gift of the gospel.

It is the calling of Trans World Radio (TWR) to reach the world for Christ by mass media so that lasting fruit is produced. This is being accomplished through the use of AM and FM radio, digital radio, web and mobile applications, and social media.

These methods of communication provide an incredible opportunity to spread the Word of God to those who could not otherwise be reached. While internet and mobile phones have given new potential, it is not as evenly distributed or widespread, so it is vital to not abandon the use of radio waves to reach those who do not have regular access or sufficient wealth to utilize newer technology.

The goal of the Church has always been to share the gift of God’s love with the whole world. We send out missionaries, train leaders, donate to mission groups, but these efforts are often blocked by barriers of different kinds. Missionaries may be blocked when they cannot cross borders, cannot get a visa, or feel the call to reach a people of a nation where Christianity is forbidden. Mass media has the potential to break down these barriers.

Dr. Paul Freed, the founder of TWR, recognized this opportunity. “It seemed that radio could move across all boundaries, over the walls, through the ‘curtains’ like nothing else.”

We can see evidence of this in TWR’s work in such places as Central Asia. In many of these countries, Christians face heavy restrictions on their religious freedom.

Openly sharing the gospel may be forbidden, family pressure prevents people from openly sharing their faith or their conversion, and meeting with the church in person can be dangerous – sometimes even impossible. This has made it difficult for missionaries to reach these people groups.

But radio, which can travel across borders that people cannot, provides the people in these nations with regular teaching and spiritual encouragement. Everything from programs in their heart languages, to biblical teaching, family values, strength in persecution, and personal testimonies can be transmitted and listened to by anyone with even a basic radio. 

Many people in Central Asia live in rural areas but even here, radio and (increasingly) the internet can reach the people in their heart language. / TWR

When borders are closed, ministries restricted, or families are not supportive, believers can feel isolated and alone, and faith which is not supported by teaching and community can be difficult to hold on to. For many of the listeners of TWR, the programs offered provide the support and hope they need, and possibly the only support they will receive.

One listener wrote, “I’ve been listening to you for more than a year.  In our region, people do not accept Christianity.  But God is supporting us.” Another wrote, “Thank you, I’m outside of my house now.  I go outside every day and listen to your sermons.  I’m not allowed to listen at home. They’re not believers. I am alone, but your programs support me.”

The programs broadcast by TWR offer not only education, but vital support needed.  They offer the listeners the knowledge that they are not alone in their faith, that they have support and love from the global church.

When we are blessed to live in countries where faith and worship are free, it can be easy to forget that this is not a guarantee for many Christians in the world. However, history has shown that the Church and personal faith can often thrive in the face of adversity.  God is using the work of TWR to reach these people and to give them the knowledge and support that they need to find Him, and to remain strong in their faith.

 With media, TWR is reaching those who may not otherwise be reached. Media is able to cross borders where people cannot go and send the gospel where it cannot be carried.  The media resources offered have the potential to reach an audience of 4 billion people. By leveraging each of its many forms, TWR finds new and creative ways to spread the message of Jesus Christ, nurturing and discipling people wherever they may be. They’re spreading the good news of salvation and hope offered by God to those who most desperately need to hear. With media and TWR, hope knows no barriers.  

Abbey Hudec, writer and editor for Trans World Radio Europe.