3xM: 30 years of support for Christian television

This year 3xM (More Message in the Media) celebrates its 30^th anniversary. 3xM supports Christian television worldwide and helps reaching millions of people with the Gospel. The last decade the focus has been more and more shifted to ‘closed’ countries..

Network of partner organizations throughout the world

According to the International Director Martien Timmer the work of 3xM is unique: “3xM is the only organization which brings Christians together to produce united Christian television in different countries in Africa and Asia. Furthermore we help the local Christian producers to produce programs independently and broadcast these programs on national TV stations (both commercial and public). Generally we have intensive and long-lasting relationships with our partner organizations abroad.”

Television and internet

In the first ten years 3xM focused on television and radio, but in the early nineties it moved to television. “In the area of printed media and radio there is much knowledge and capacity amongst Christian organizations”, says Timmer. This is not the case in the field of television. That is why we chose to focus on Christian television explicitly. Since a number of years 3xM is also involved in internet developments. More and more people decide themselves when and where to watch a program.”

Cooperation of Christians

3xM gives priority to projects in ‘closed’ countries. Proclaiming the Gospel is much more difficult in these countries than in other countries. Furthermore many people in these countries have never been able to hear the Gospel. According to Timmer it is very special that national television stations broadcast Christian television programs in ‘closed’ countries. Timmer:”The key to success is the fact that Christians from different denominations unite and work together to get broadcasting time.’

Social issues in TV programs

In most of the TV programs social issues are discussed from a Christian point of view. Many reactions from viewers show that there is much interest in the programs, according to Timmer. “Therefore counseling at the end of the programs becomes more important.”

Support from the constituency

Due to the increasing number of countries that give possibilities for Christian TV, 3xM needs more financial resources in the near future. Timmer: “We trust that the Lord will help us as He knows the needs. During this year of anniversary we hope to raise extra funds. In different ways we hope to acquire extra support in this anniversary year, for example approaching foundations and Christian business people in The Netherlands and the USA.