Would you go to church in a boat? What about under penalty of death if you're caught? I wonder what I would do. What about you? Under what circumstances are we willing to attend any church under penalty of death? It's happening right now.
Yes, I'm talking about going out on something like that rickety old wooden fishing boat in this image.
If it looks cold and uninviting, that's because it is.
It's off the coast of - no - wait. I'll tell you in a moment.
The headline I read was: Two secret churches in {country name to follow} show how powerful the Bible really is.
The article starts off with this:
In the early morning light, a small group of {country name to follow} believers meet on the riverbank, lugging their fishing gear with them.
Quietly, they load into a small boat and push off from land. It’s not until they’re far into the middle of the river that they ... to dig through their gear and pull out their Bibles.
Summary
Discusses the phenomenon of secret churches in a country where Christianity is illegal, and believers meet on boats to study the Bible and worship together.
Biblical Reference: It draws a parallel to the biblical scene where Jesus calls his first disciples, who were fishermen, to become “fishers of men.”.
Safety Measures: These secret gatherings on small fishing boats are out of necessity for safety, as Christians face severe penalties, including imprisonment or death, for practicing their faith.
Reflection Question: The author poses a thought-provoking question to the reader: Would you attend a church in a boat under such circumstances, highlighting the risks and dedication of these believers?
Invites readers to reflect on their own faith and the lengths they would go to practice it in the face of adversity.
Secret churches show the Power of God's Word
Would you do this? Would you go to church in that boat pictured on the right? It's old.
Looks dangerous. Although, you don't really know yet why the other boats in the background are the reason why it might be dangerous.
And yet, it's probably very much like what the people mentioned above are using.
Church in a boat - taking the Bible too literally?
I left out some information on purpose. The article does say where this church in a boat phenomenon is taking place. I'll tell you soon. But I did include the part that says these are secret churches. So - are they being so secretive because they're afraid someone will think they're weird for taking the Bible too literally?
In case you're not sure what I'm talking about, remember this scene:
The Calling of the First Disciples - Matthew
4:18-22 pp — Mk 1:16-20; Lk 5:2-11; Jn 1:35-42
Mt 4:18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him.
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I’d probably go. Maybe try to catch a few trout on the way. Share it with the others.
Not sure about the trout – but MS Copilot recommend: Some of the best fish to eat off the coast of North Korea include clam BBQ, gongmiri sashimi, and catfish fillet. Clam BBQ is a popular dish at Majon Resort in Hamhung, where fresh clams are grilled on the beach and served with a spicy vinegar dressing. Gongmiri sashimi, a silverfish delicacy, is enjoyed fresh with chili sauce in Wonsan. Additionally, catfish fillet, lightly battered and fried, is a local favorite in seafood restaurants. I think I’d try the gongmiri sushi.