Field Story: From Drug Addict to Church Planter

Minh’s* life used to be defined by drugs, gambling, and stealing. Many men in Southeast Asia struggle with these issues. Even Minh’s uncle, Phan*, used to drink and gamble. But when Phan heard the gospel, his life changed. He shared the gospel with Minh, and Minh realized how much Jesus loved him in spite of his brokenness.

After Minh became a follower of Jesus, Phan told him about a church planting training happening nearby and invited him to go. The training, hosted by East-West, taught Minh the basics of sharing the gospel and making disciples. Excited, Minh immediately went out into his community to share the good news of Jesus.

Because of Minh’s enthusiasm and faithfulness, he got connected to Trang*, an East-West national partner. Trang took Minh under his wing and began teaching him more about church planting and building disciples.

Today, Minh is still partnering with Trang to multiply disciples and churches in Southeast Asia. From a drug addict to a church planter, Minh’s life has been radically transformed.

"But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. ... And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." -2 Corinthians 16, 18

*Names changed for security purposes.