The Margi, South of Nigeria
Margi Tiwi nga Tǝm of Nigeria: Their name means “Margi that cry with pot which is a symbol of a drum,” referring to the distinctive drum-songs used at festivals and funerals. Also known as Margi South, they are closely related to Nya huba, Margi Central and Margi West. The people live in rural areas keeping small farms. There has been a Christian influence since the 1920s; 70 to 80 percent claim church affiliation and attend Sunday services. Though Margi Christians are in the majority, they still suffer both subtle and overt persecution from those professing other beliefs. They are denied jobs, promotions and raises they deserve. Sometimes they can’t get services to which they are entitled because of their beliefs; for example, authorities withhold building permits for churches. This kind oThe f treatment discourages the believers. Scripture in their mother tongue will both strengthen their personal faith and it will give them tools through which to share their faith with others. Believers are concerned about divorce, substance abuse and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Couples need to discover their identity in Jesus and look to Him to meet their needs, allowing His life through them to slow the soaring divorce rate. Those caught in the trap of substance abuse and sexual promiscuity need to know the One who can satisfy the longings that can lead to destructive behaviors.
Have They Heard The Gospel? Is the Word of God Translated? First, the Gospel of Luke was translated into their Margi Tiwi ngǝ Tǝm and produced in both printed and audio versions. Then the JESUS Film, based on Luke’s Gospel. With the enthusiastic response to Luke and “JESUS” film, the christian community became eager for more Scripture in their language. Now work has started on translating the new testament.The Gospel of Luke has been produced on audio now in the same language.
Church is a dominant part of Margi life. About two-thirds of the population attend Sunday services. Many also participate in midweek fellowship groups, youth activities, prayer meetings and choir rehearsals. But they have only the recently published Gospel of Luke in their own language. Now that they’ve tasted the good Word, believers are hungry for more! Hindrances to Scripture Distribution Potential of extremist activities in the area.
Though Margi Christians are in the majority, they still suffer both subtle and overt persecution from those professing other beliefs. They are denied jobs, promotions and raises they deserve. Sometimes they can’t get services to which they are entitled because of their beliefs; for example, authorities withhold building permits for churches. This kind of treatment discourages the believers. Scripture in their mother tongue will both strengthen their personal faith and it will give them tools through which to share their faith with others. Believers are concerned about divorce, substance abuse and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Couples need to discover their identity in Jesus and look to Him to meet their needs, allowing His life through them to slow the soaring divorce rate. Those caught in the trap of substance abuse and sexual promiscuity need to know the One who can satisfy the longings that can lead to destructive behaviors.
