In the turbulent 1960s, Indonesia was swept by a profound spiritual awakening, with the island of Timor at its heart. Among the many stories of transformation and divine intervention was that of Nahor Leo, an 18-year-old whose life changed dramatically. Raised in the church but not living a true Christian life, Nahor was known to rely on a spirit amulet, reflecting the blend of Christianity and traditional beliefs prevalent in the region.
Sudden Blindness Brings Crisis
One day, as Nahor was studying English, he encountered a sudden crisis—darkness enveloped him, and he was temporarily blinded. In his desperation, he inadvertently singed his eyebrows while trying to see more clearly. This moment of crisis led Nahor to a profound realization of his need for God. On September 26, 1965, at the Reformed Church in Soe, Nahor openly confessed his sins and renounced his use of the amulet. This act of repentance sparked a widespread revival.
Indonesia Revival Testimony 1965
As the Holy Spirit descended upon the congregation, what started as Nahor's personal encounter with Jesus soon became a movement. The Maranatha Church witnessed an outpouring described by some as the sound of a tornado. What followed was a series of miraculous events: healings, deliverance from occult practices, and a mass turning to faith in Christ. Nahor, now deeply committed to Jesus, led an evangelistic team of young people across Timor. In October 1965, during a mission to Niki-Niki, about 9,000 individuals embraced faith in Jesus.
Mass Conversion Revival Story
This revival was marked by numerous miracles, including healings and the return of sight to the blind. Occult objects were burned as communities turned away from sorcery. Over five years, more than 200,000 people converted, with the first year alone seeing 80,000 new believers.
Despite skepticism, the transformed lives and communities stood as undeniable evidence of Jesus' work. Nahor Leo's testimony remains a powerful reminder of the dramatic changes that genuine repentance and encountering Jesus can bring.
