Robert DeCorah and the Spirit of Native Revival
Robert DeCorah had just retired after 30 years of pastoring when the Lord led him into the fulfillment of a powerful, lifelong calling—to be a witness and warrior for his people, the Native Americans. With a heart for disadvantaged communities, Robert has traveled across the nation teaching, connecting Native communities, and sharing the love of Christ as Native Ministries International (NMI).
There is a grievous history between Europeans and Native Americans that spans several centuries. Sadly, this history has created an association for many Natives between the name of Jesus Christ and horrendous atrocities committed against them. As a Christian Native, Robert has a unique ability to connect with these communities and share the Gospel from an Indigenous perspective. Storytelling, a deeply rooted tradition in First Nations culture, is one of the key methods he uses to bring the Bible to life. With such invaluable insight, Robert teaches, preaches, and creates video surveys of the Bible to further convey its meaning.
‘Unreached’ is a category not often attributed to Native Americans, partly because most have some knowledge of God. Knowing about someone is drastically different from placing faith in that Person alone, however. As an additional hurdle, this knowledge of God is often mixed with traditional beliefs leading only to confusion and spiritual bondage. True and eternal freedom comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone as the Way, the Truth, and the Life. His name cannot—and will not—be equated with any other.
Beyond Gospel proclamation, NMI extends to a comprehensive, Native-centric website. Many Indigenous tribes have their own webpages, but they are not easily discoverable. Instead of sifting through scattered results from a Google search, NativeMI.org serves as a single hub for accurate tribal information. Through the directory or any of the several maps, one can quickly find a tribe’s website, location, and contact information.
Additionally, NativeMI.org offers a wealth of resources for Indigenous peoples, covering both secular and Bible-based topics such as health, education, business, and ministry. This essential database makes knowledge and connection easily accessible among the very few Native-focused platforms.
As Robert visits different states and reservations connecting people with the online network and distributing essentials like Bibles and clothing, God often puts people in his path who are in spiritual need. It is through these interactions that he often sees the powerful hand of the Lord and liberating move of the Holy Spirit. One man in particular experienced severe, demonic oppression. Although Robert intended to simply pass out flyers for the website, God had a bigger purpose in mind. After receiving deliverance prayer, this man not only accepted Christ but experienced freedom from the chains that once held him.
Robert recognizes the necessity for further spiritual formation through discipleship. As such, he also participates in conferences like those of the Keystone Project, where leaders are trained to be disciples who make disciples. To God's glory, hundreds of Native Americans have attended these kinds of programs, receiving the Gospel and the tools they need to live abundant lives.
Despite facing a number of intense trials, health concerns, and financial setbacks, Robert remains faithful to the mission God has placed on his heart. Unfortunately, Native pastors and ministers are often severely underpaid. While this would deter some, Robert trusts the Lord completely for financial provision in all circumstances. No matter the difficulty, he relies on the truth that God works out all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
For every trial, there are also great joys and tremendous victories. Robert has seen breathtaking visions, experienced angelic encounters, received miraculous healing, walked countless people through deliverance, and led many to Christ. The profound work that God is doing in our present day cannot be overstated, no matter what the media may try to project.
Although there are many facets to Robert’s ministry, they are all united in their common purpose of following the lead of the Holy Spirit. Whether pastoring, teaching at conferences, ministering to the lost, building a network, or traveling across more than fifty reservations, the kingdom of God is taking on a tangible form among First Nations people. To God’s glory, a revival is rising up in the unifying power of Christ Jesus that we are honored to witness and partner with.