From Sikh Skeptic to Seeker
Born into a Sikh family in Joiya village, Punjab, Bakht Singh Chabra grew up in a religious environment, yet was initially hostile to Christianity. His skepticism was so strong that he tore up a Bible. However, life took a transformative turn when he moved to Canada in 1929 to study agriculture at the University of Manitoba. There, he met John and Edith Hayward, whose faith intrigued him. Through their kindness and the Scriptures they shared, Bakht Singh began to explore the New Testament.
A Moment of Divine Awakening
On December 16, 1929, at precisely 11:30 a.m., Bakht Singh experienced a profound spiritual awakening. He sensed God speaking to him, convicting him of his past life. Overwhelmed by the love and grace he discovered in Jesus, he confessed his sins and embraced a new faith in Christ. "A great change came into my life," he later recalled, "joy flooded my soul, and I could not stop repeating the name of Jesus."
Called to Share the Gospel
Following his baptism in Vancouver in 1932, Bakht Singh returned to India in 1933, committed to sharing the gospel. His family, fearing societal backlash, asked him to keep his faith private. "Can I live without breathing?" he responded, affirming his commitment to openly following Jesus. He began preaching in the streets of Mumbai, where his ministry was marked by remarkable miracles and healings, drawing large crowds.
Building an Indigenous Church Movement
In 1941, after a night of prayer in Chennai, Bakht Singh pioneered an indigenous church movement, emphasizing local leadership and practices rooted in New Testament teachings. His efforts led to the establishment of more than 10,000 local churches across India, Pakistan, and beyond. His teachings and life exemplified a deep reliance on God's provision and a dedication to Scripture.
Bakht Singh's legacy is one of transformation through faith in Jesus Christ, impacting generations and inspiring believers to pursue authentic expressions of worship and community.
