
Four Tips for Reaching the Bosniaks
[Estimated reading time: 2 minutes]
Of the 3.2 million people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, nearly half identify with the nation’s primary religion: Islam. In fact, only 0.07% is evangelical, according to Joshua Project.
Having learned about the Bosniak people, what tips can we use to reach them for Christ?
1. Do not aim for fast results
The Bosniaks have a richly intertwined culture, faith and ethnic identity. To rely on a model of efficient numerical conversion or to consider success as seeing thousands come to Christ in the short- to medium-term is to misunderstand the complexity of the Bosniak situation. Reaching some of the world’s most unreached requires the patient sowing of seeds.
2. Be straightforward
Direct culture and language may appear too blunt in some parts of the world, but the Bosniaks, and more widely those in the Southern Balkans, are used to saying exactly what they mean without pretense. Preaching the gospel should not be veiled or disguised, as this will likely only reinforce the general mistrust of faith and Christianity.
3. Understand the audience
This is sound guidance for reaching any people group, but it is especially worth reinforcing in this case. As noted, the ethnic and social fabric in the South Balkans is highly complex. Anyone looking to reach the Bosniaks with the gospel should have a good understanding of their history and society so that those being ministered to can see that care has been taken in presenting the gospel.
4. Understand Islam
The Bosniaks are most likely to associate with Islam. Considering this, it is good to be familiar with what Muslims believe and how they view Christianity.