Marijuana Seller
John Bata made marijuana his life… until he met Jesus.
From the tender age of 15, John Bata found his identity, survival and livelihood in the shadows of marijuana production. He became both a producer and a heavy user of marijuana, and this lifestyle held him captive for decades. Marijuana not only poisoned his body—it took hold of his mind and deadened his conscience. It clouded his thoughts, induced delusions and gave him a false sense of happiness.
Under Papua New Guinea’s 2023 Marijuana Act, the production, sale and consumption of marijuana is strictly prohibited. Despite this law, the illicit trade continues to thrive, fueled by widespread poverty and the ever-increasing demand from addicted youth. For many, marijuana is a quick path to cash; for others, it becomes a destructive escape.
In response, churches across the nation have risen to the challenge. Through evangelism and grassroots outreach, they are offering something beyond legal reform—they are offering spiritual transformation through Jesus Christ.
One day, John walked into church and said that he wanted to accept Christ as his personal Savior and prepare for baptism. I stood by him and wondered if he was genuine or just someone suffering a from a guilty conscience. I had seen many before him walk into church and claim salvation, only to relapse within weeks.
But John’s story would be different. Without hesitation, John destroyed all of his marijuana crops. He didn’t hide or deny his past. He embraced change with humility and courage.
It’s rare to see someone of his age quit so suddenly and completely. The withdrawal symptoms could have easily impaired his health with severe asthma, confusion or anxiety, but God preserved his life. I have known him for six months now, and he has not wavered in his conviction to stop producing, selling or smoking this deadly poison. His walk with Jesus has been steady, sincere and unshaken.
His transformation—from a long-time user and drug seller to a disciple of Jesus—is nothing short of miraculous. His story is a testament to what God can do when a heart is surrendered. In a world where addiction destroys homes, futures and even faith, John’s life stands as a beacon of hope. No one is too far gone, no past is too dark and no chain is too strong for the power of God! His story encourages us to continue the work of ministry in Papua New Guinea, where so many are still bound by addiction, poverty and hopelessness.
There are villages where drugs rule the minds of youth, where churches are understaffed, and where materials are scarce. Your financial support can help us bring hope to those like John. Every donation helps us to print materials, host outreach meetings and support lay workers who walk daily with hurting and addicted men and women. Will you support this mission?
Location
Papua New Guinea
Author
Moses Yauma is a lay evangelist working in the upper highlands of PNG.
How You Can Help
Pray for the evangelistic endeavors of Moses and the other lay workers as they reach out to the people around them who are starving for the truth.
Pray for John as he begins his new life in Christ. Pray that God will continue to give him victory and a steadfast faith in His Word.
Give to the evangelistic work in PNG by sending your check marked “PNG Evangelism” to:
Mission Projects International
PO Box 237
Kirksville, MO 63501
To give securely online, visit: www.missionspro.org/donate