PRAY FOR THE CHRISTIANS IN IRAN

Hello Friend - When you think of or read headlines about Iran, my guess is certain images likely come to mind—blindfolded hostages, maybe crowds of protestors carrying giant banners through the streets. But in this strategic gateway of the Middle East, God is writing another powerful story today. A story that will both challenge and inspire you.  Throughout the 10th most dangerous place for Christians, committed Christ followers, often former Muslims, are risking their lives to see others experience the Good News they have found. The disillusionment with the violence of Islam and the spiritual hunger are almost palpable. Iranians have become the Muslim people most open to the gospel in the Middle East. It is a modern-day Book of Acts.  Like the early church of Acts that expanded exponentially in the face of persecution, the persecuted church of Iran is also experiencing explosive growth--even as the Islamic Republic intensifies its crackdown on house churches (illegal in Iran) and imprisons anyone involved in them. In August, a husband-and-wife couple and their entire house church of 10 people were arrested and sentenced to a year in prison. Being one of the 500,000 secret Christians in Iran invites severe persecution on multiple fronts. This month, we’re focusing on Iran and the disciples God is using to work His plan there and throughout the Middle East. I hope you’ll read the article below and begin to pray regularly and fervently with us as we introduce you to devoted Christ followers and show you what our Iranian brothers and sisters are walking through as they build His Church.

Meet Iranian Believers

And then I hope you’ll be moved to share a prayer on our new Prayer Wall—and read the prayers of others who, like you, are also remembering persecuted believers. (You don’t need a Facebook account to leave your prayer, however, if you would like to tell and invite others through social media, we’d love it.)

Share Your Prayer

As always, thank you for getting it! Thank you for understanding that we are called to strengthen the global Church—advancing the Kingdom and ultimately, preparing the world for Christ’s return.

Best, Lindy Lowry, Open Doors Weekly editor

P.S. Look for a special Open Doors announcement tomorrow morning in your email. You won’t want to miss it.