God's Heart for Japan
God’s heart is that the nations would know His Son. Japan is a nation of more than 120 million people, yet the church there remains very small. Less than 1% of Japanese identify as Christian, and estimates suggest that less than 0.05% hold a biblical worldview.
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There are faithful believers and some historic Reformed congregations in Japan, but strong, confessional Reformed churches are few. Many congregations are small, aging, and isolated. Churches shaped by a clear Reformed confession, robust preaching, elder-led shepherding, and a serious commitment to evangelism are especially scarce.
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That gap matters, because Japan does not merely need more religious activity. It needs churches that proclaim Christ crucified and risen, train leaders, and make disciples who can stand in a culture still largely shaped by Shinto, Buddhism, and a quiet but deep spiritual emptiness.
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Maku Missions exists to answer that need in partnership with local churches. The aim is not to replace Japanese churches with Western ones, but to strengthen them so that more congregations become healthy, Reformed, and missional, and more Japanese people hear and believe the Word of life.
Our Story
In 2020, while the world focused on a pandemic, a quieter and more devastating reality in Japan gripped our hearts: more people were dying by suicide than from COVID-19.
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That sobering fact became a turning point. We began praying earnestly for Japan to not merely offer temporary relief, but to give the lasting hope that is found only the gospel of Jesus Christ. We firmly believe that the good news of Christ’s death and resurrection is the only true solution to the despair, isolation, and spiritual emptiness so many in Japan face.
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What began as prayer soon became action. Over the years that followed, I (John) have made multiple trips to Japan to walk alongside local pastors and churches. I have had the opportunity to encourage churches, help train emerging leaders, teach on outreach and evangelism, lead short-term mission teams, and offer consultation for church health and reform. These visits have allowed me to listen, learn, serve, and partner rather than impose.
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The desire is simple: to see the gospel take deeper root in Japan through faithful local churches, equipped leaders, and intentional outreach. We continue to pray, go, and support the work of planting, strengthening, and reforming congregations so that more people might encounter the living hope found only in Jesus Christ.
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God has not abandoned Japan and we invite you to pray, partner and go with us as He leads you.Â
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