Is God doing something special in Germany?

Yesterday, 18th September, about twenty of us gathered in Giessen, in the heart of Germany, for a meeting called RefNet. RefNet is a new Reformed and Presbyterian network aimed at bringing together like-minded men from across Germany. It began about two years ago and has now developed into an annual gathering.

This year’s theme was “Discipleship,” and we heard from three pastors who spoke on the subject. What I found particularly encouraging was the honesty with which the men shared about the struggles and challenges they face in their respective churches. There was no pretence that everything is easy. Instead, there was a willingness to speak openly about the difficulties of ministry.

But perhaps the most encouraging aspect of the whole day was the fellowship with other men. Knowing that I am not standing alone, but that others are standing together for the gospel, brings immense joy and encouragement to a weary soul. There is something deeply strengthening about meeting with other brothers who are labouring for the same faith and facing many of the same challenges.

An older, retired pastor also charged us to remain under the Word. He repeatedly said to us, “Stay under the Word! Don’t make any compromises!” The weight of those words were felt by us all. This pastor has laboured faithfully, and often alone, to establish a Reformed church in Germany for most of his life, with a gentleness and faithfulness that is not often seen today.

Looking ahead, there are many encouraging signs. Could we be seeing the beginnings of a revival of healthy churches in Germany? We do not know what the Lord has in store, but we can pray for it.

Would you pray with us that God would rebuild His church in Germany? Germany was once the heartland of the Reformation, but today it is very much a mission field. Yet the Lord has not changed, and His promise remains true: Christ will build His church.

As Jesus told Peter: “I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” — Matthew 16:18

May the Lord raise up faithful men, establish healthy churches, and cause the gospel to flourish once again in Germany—all for the glory of Christ.