November 16, 2021
Pastor Scott Boerckel
One way to understand the state of the world as it relates to the Gospel is by statistics.
Now, statistics do not tell us everything, but they can sometimes shed light where we need to see more clearly the great cause in which our Lord has us engaged. So, here are some statistics in round numbers that give us some insights into the state of our world. Keep in mind that some of these numbers vary pretty widely, depending on the source that you use.
7.75 billion
The population on the earth. The median age is 29.7, and the worldwide life expectancy is 68.
3.2 billion
The unreached of the earth. This is defined as the people who have less than 2% of Christians around them. It is 41% of the earth.
2 billion
Have never heard of anything about salvation through Jesus, even in a distorted way.
1.8 billion
Muslims
1.3 billion
Roman Catholics
1.2 billion
Hindus
1.2 billion
Teenagers in the world
900 million
Protestants
550 million
Evangelicals (this is a self label; it is known only to God how many are genuine believers in Jesus)
535 million
Buddhists
500 million
Atheists. This number is a lot lower than it used to be, likely because of political and technological change. In the 1980s, this number was 900 million.
232 million
Animists
171 million
Do not have a single Bible verse in their language
1 million
International students in the US, 62% of which come from the 10/40 window. 80% will never be invited into an American home. 40% of the 220 heads of state of the nations of the world once studied in the US.
17,443
Ethnic groups
7,418
Number of ethnic groups that are unreached (42.5% of the total)
400,000
Foreign missionaries
$490 million
The amount of money that Americans spend on Halloween costumes . . . for their pets
As we wrap up our missions conference, what plans are you making to “lay aside every weight” to make Christ known? Look over these numbers again. This time, do so in prayer, asking the Lord, “Lord, what will you have me to do?”
Blessings,
Pastor Scott
Sources:
https://www.project42partners.org/stats
https://www.premierchristianity.com/home/muslims-turning-to-christ-a-global-phenomenon/2056.article
http://www.thetravelingteam.org/stats
https://joshuaproject.net/
https://operationworld.org/
November OakLeaf Articles:
The State of the World by Scott Boerckel
Three Priorities to Shape Evangelism by Jim Boerckel
Genuine Curiosity in Gospel Conversations by Matt Kent
A Life Worth Living by Robert J. Morgan
The Message the World Needs to Hear by RD
Nurturing a Love for the Lost by Larry Van Gundy
The Gospel Is Life Itself by Jim Simmons
Participating in the Disciple Making Process by Ron Miller
