Summary
Larantuka Malay, one of the Malay languages spoken in Indonesia, has borrowed several words from Portuguese, and here's why it happened. Portuguese traders in the 1700s once used Flores Island, the home of most Larantuka speakers, as an outpost. Larantuka Malay speakers are not likely to speak Bahasa, the official language of Indonesia. Thought to be decreasingly used and taught, the language of Larantuka Malay is endangered.
Ministry Obstacles
Most of the Larantuka Malay are Sunni Muslims. They reject the idea that they need the sacrifice of a sin-free savior to come into good standing with God. Influence from the days of Portuguese traders has left a small Roman Catholic minority among them. Most Larantuka Malay likely fish and grow rice, but Flores Island is no longer a trade center, leaving little means to expand ways to make a living. The lack of outside interaction limits both economic and ministry opportunities.
Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
2 Timothy 2:25-26
Pray
Pray for new believers to have mercy and love for those who are abusive. Pray that they will intercede in prayer for them.
Pray for the Lord to raise up and thrust out Christ followers to show them better ways to earn a living. Pray for God's word and love to reach the hearts of the Larantuka Malay. Pray that the Roman Catholics among them will focus their spirituality on the Lord Jesus Christ and learn to love and obey him. Pray for radio broadcasts and gospel recordings to reach Larantuka Malay communities. Pray for a movement to Christ among the Larantuka Malay.
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