Jambi in Indonesia

The Jambi, also known as the Jambi Malay, inhabit a lowland basin of dense jungles, peat bogs, swamps, and rivers. The Batang Hari River system is an important means of transportation and a source of fish for them. The Jambi are very proud of their links with an ancient Malay kingdom that flourished from the 7th century until the Middle Ages. Sadly, this pride now threatens their economic development. Many are unwilling to accept modernization and reform. Almost all Jambi are Muslim, and every village has a mosque or prayer house, and often an Islamic religious school (madrasah). The Jambi sometimes believe that religious leaders, dwarfs, and shamans have supernatural powers.

Ministry Obstacles

The Jambi put their identity in the Islamic religious system, so few are open to hearing about the finished work of Christ.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for gospel radio to be heard and embraced among the Jambi people.

Scripture Focus

"Behold, the LORD God comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him."  Isaiah 40:10

Scripture Prayer

Pray for many from this people group to claim this verse by embracing the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Very few Jambi follow Christ. Those who are believers need prayer support as they seek to live faithfully in a strongly Muslim environment. Pray for greater educational help. Pray for the Jambi to learn new skills that will make them more competitive in the job market. Pray for more of the Jambi to hear and respond to the gospel message.