“The Netherlands, do the will of GOD!”
The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of GOD lives forever. (1 John 2:17,NIV)
》 Country Profile
Continent | Europe
Population | 17.4 million
Area | 41,543㎢, Located in northwestern Europe, centered around the Rhine Delta.
Capital City | Amsterdam (1.16 million people)
People Groups | Total 103 groups, Dutch 76.9%, Europeans 6.4%, Turkish 2.4%, Moroccans 2.3%, Indonesians 2.1%, Germans 2.1%, Surinamese 2%, Polish 1%, others 4.8%
Unreached People Groups | 24 (9.3% of the population)
Official Language(s) | Dutch
Total Languages | 84
Bible Translations | Completed 66, New Testament 12, Partial 5
Religion | Christianity 46.7% (Protestant 16%, Catholic 27%), Non-religious 42.6%, Muslim 7.8%, Hindu 1.7% Evangelical 4%(730,000 people)
》 About The Netherlands
The Netherlands developed differently from other countries. Most countries expanded from a central city. But Dutch cities lived separately at first. When outside threats came, they united into one country. Major cities grew independently and came under Spanish rule in 1515. In the 16th century, the Reformation began. Lutheranism came to the northeast from Germany. Calvinism came to the south from France. The Netherlands was strong in sea trade and business. It was also more tolerant in religion. In other countries, politics came first. But in the Netherlands, the economy was so strong it influenced politics. During its golden age, the Netherlands faced attacks from Britain and France. In World War II, Germany invaded. After the war, the Netherlands joined the Benelux Union and gained independence.
The Dutch economy depends heavily on trade. Processing and transit trade are strong, so exports are high. Main industries are food processing, chemicals, oil refining, and electrical machines. Farming is very productive due to advanced technology. The government supports agriculture and food industries. Many global food companies have headquarters in the Netherlands. The country also produces lots of natural gas. But ground sinking and earthquakes are decreasing production at gas fields.
The Netherlands’ GDP per capita is approximately $54,200.
》 Scripture Focus
| 1 John 2:15–18, 24–25(NIV) 15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the FATHER is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the FATHER but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of GOD lives forever. 18 Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. 24 As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the SON and in the FATHER. 25 And this is what he promised us—eternal life. |
》 Prayer Points
1. The Netherlands is a key strategic place for missions in Europe and the world. If churches and mission groups obey God’s calling, He will bring fruit. Dutch Missions is smaller than before but still active. Many Dutch missionaries serve in creative programs and development work. Immigrant churches bring diversity, energy, and hope. The number of migrants continues to grow. Refugees are opening new doors for missions. The Muslim population is growing, and many mosques are being built. But we give thanks that some Muslims are coming to Christ. Groups like Gave, Evangelie & Moslims, and OM focus on reaching Muslim refugees. Let us pray that churches and missions will joyfully do God’s will. Let us pray that they will share the gospel with unreached people in the land. May the Lord pour out His passion and love and bring revival to the Netherlands.
2. Dutch children enjoy great welfare, but many are spiritually lost. The gospel is urgently needed. Many churches and mission groups serve youth and young adults. YWAM, YFC, and OM work together to host youth events like Restoration, XNoizz, Soul Survivor, Heart Cry, and EO-Youth Conference. Let us pray these ministries will deeply impact young people’s faith. University students live in a society filled with ideologies against God. It’s hard to follow Jesus in that environment. IFES, Navigators, and Agape Missions are active on many campuses. Let us pray that students will see how empty the world’s lusts and pride truly are. May the next generation in the Netherlands know the urgency of the times. Let them turn from sin and find eternal life in the love of Jesus Christ.
3. In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country to legalize active euthanasia. Doctors can assist patients commit suicide who suffer without hope of recovery. This is different from passive euthanasia, which ends life-support. In 2022, over 8,700 euthanasia cases were reported. The number is growing each year. Recently, the age limit was lowered to include children under 12. The Netherlands became the second country to allow euthanasia at all ages, after Belgium. Let us pray that the Netherlands will know the Lord, the Giver of life. May people not choose eternal death to escape present pain. Let them seek the will of God in Christ, who gives eternal life.
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