God's Plan After Father's Death
Efraim Tendero grew up in the Philippines, facing the harsh realities of financial hardship after his father passed away when he was just nine years old. Despite these challenges, his mother's words, 'No. God has a plan and a future for you,' resonated deeply with him, instilling hope and faith during times of doubt. Efraim's journey took a transformative turn when he heard a preacher speak about Jesus. He expressed a profound desire to know Christ, stating, 'I want to have that kind of everlasting father.' This pivotal moment led him to pursue a relationship with Jesus, which drastically shifted his life's path.
Surrendering Career Plans to God
Originally aspiring to be a lawyer or politician, Efraim surrendered his ambitions to serve God. He enrolled in seminary, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from FEBIAS College of Bible in Valenzuela, Philippines. His dedication to faith and leadership did not go unnoticed, and in 1993, he was appointed National Director of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches. His leadership extended globally when he became the Secretary-General and CEO of the World Evangelical Alliance in 2015, representing 600 million evangelicals across 130 countries.
Global Ministry and Leadership
Throughout his career, Efraim has been a steadfast advocate for unity within the Church. He emphasized, 'We need to eliminate competition and pursue cooperation. This is not the work of one organization -- it's the work of the whole Body of Christ.' His leadership also extended to mediation efforts, notably serving for five years in Iraq, facilitating peace processes between conflicting parties.
A Life Transformed by Faith
Efraim's life is a testament to the power of Jesus to transform and guide a person to accomplish great things for His Kingdom. His mother's prophetic encouragement, coupled with his encounter with Christ, set him on a path that would impact millions. Efraim continues to give thanks to God for His provision and guidance, acknowledging that it is Jesus who has opened doors and granted him opportunities to serve globally.
