Death of Missionary John Chau: The Other Side of the Story

Strike the Match with J. D. Payne

For the past week, international news has covered the death of U.S., missionary John Allen Chau. Sometime between November 16 and November 18, Chau was killed by the North Sentinelese on the isolated North Sentinel Island in the Indian Ocean. He was there to share the gospel with this unengaged-unreached people group.

Media sources and social media feeds rarely communicate a balanced perspective. While I did read one article that was a display of fair and balanced journalism, most labeled Chau as a health risk, colonialist, and/or mentally ill.

This special episode of Strike the Match provides the other side of the story. My guest is Dr. Pam Arlund, a member of the International Leadership Team with All Nations. Dr. Arlund served as a Bible translator and church planter in Central Asia for ten years. She now trains and coaches others to make disciples and multiply churches. Dr. Arlund is a well-informed, credible source.

Chau was a missionary with All Nations. According to Dr. Arlund, he received training, had an entrance strategy, and had a strategy for life and ministry on the island.

Dr. Arlund also speaks to the matter that before leaving, Chau received some health care training, worked on obtaining proper vaccinations, and quarantined himself before getting on the boat. She also addresses the concerns regarding colonialistic practices and Chau’s sanity.

One matter that came as a surprise was that Chau believed the travel restriction had been lifted from the North Sentinel Island. According to the articles linked below (shared by Dr. Arlund), the travel ban was lifted earlier this year until 2022. This included the ban on the North Sentinel Island.

India: Andaman Islands-Restricted Area Permit Abolished

No More Restricted Area Permit for Foreigners Visiting 29 Andaman Islands

29 Islands in Andaman and Nicobar Removed from RAP

Dangerous Tribe Islands to Open to Tourists for the First Time-Despite Previous Murders

We need to pray for the peace of God that passes all understanding (Phil 4:7) for Chau’s family, friends, and those connected to All Nations. They mourn. For them, this is a hard reality. May we remember our brother who gave his all for the advancement of the Kingdom.

“John fell in love with a people that he never met,” says Arlund, “and that he loved them even at the moment they were attacking and killing him.”

Listen. Share. Discuss. Go.

All Nations may be reached at AllNations.US or by email at [e-mail]