John 15:20 – “Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you…”
It’s easy to forget that so many around the world are being persecuted for their faith. We live in a time and place in the Western world where persecution for our faith consists of cancellation on social media or losing a friend for a biblically affirming, but unpopular post. In the grand scheme of things, this is not that big of a deal. However, in other parts of the world, by claiming Christ, people risk much more than social media cancellation. They could literally be putting themselves in a position to die for Christ.
According to a post by The Persecuted, “Eight believers die every day, 182 Churches are ravaged every week, and three hundred nine innocent Christians are accused.”
North Korea
North Korea is one of the most difficult places in the world to be a Believer in Christ, and has been for the past 20 years. Many who claim the name of Jesus are killed. Even for the infraction of owning a bible, one can be placed in a camp or sentenced to death. Only the Great Leader is to be revered and worshipped. Anything else is quickly snuffed out.
But even with the persecution, God’s name is still being shared and embraced. There are many underground, believing Christians, even in such a dark place. According to Open Doors, the number is around 300,000. Glory to God!
Afghanistan
Afghanistan is another country where Christianity is not accepted. When Christians embrace Christ, those who can move out of the country for fear of retribution. Those who can’t frequently are disowned by their families and some are even put in asylums to “cure” them from their newfound religion.
Somalia
Somalia is another Muslim country that does not tolerate Christians or converts. If someone is suspected of being a Christian, not only are they in danger, but the entire family is at risk for persecution. Many women are raped and are forcibly married, regardless of their age.
Amazingly, a woman named Momina is quoted as saying, “We were all dead, but Jesus came to save us and give us a new life … I leave my life in His hands. I am so excited that God is with me wherever I am; I am also glad the Lord listens to my prayers.”
Libya
Libya, in northern Africa, is a country dominated by Islam as well. “Although there are around 34,500 Christians in the country, only a tiny number (approximately 150) are Libyan—the majority are expatriate and migrant workers.”
Many Africans who are attempting to reach Europe are held in Tripoli, Libya in detention centers. If they are found to be Christians, they may be forced into labor camps or prostitution.
Pakistan
Pakistan is yet another Muslim country that persecutes Christians. As a Christian, Pakistanis are pushed to the margins of society and given the very lowest and dirtiest jobs in the culture. It is especially difficult for Christian girls to choose Jesus. “There have also been reports of targeted trafficking of Christian girls for both bonded labor and a prostitution ring that smuggles Christian girls into China.”
There are clearly many suffering. But praise be His name that through all of the suffering and all of the persecution, His name continues to bring hope. “He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. COME, LORD JESUS.” (Rev. 22:20).
Pray for the Church body. When one part of the Body suffers, no matter where in the world they are, we all suffer. Pray for strength. Pray for boldness here in the United States, where the freedoms we have can so easily be taken for granted. We are the last bastion of freedom and truth. I pray none of us takes that responsibility for granted. If our brothers and sisters around the world risk their lives for Christ, we must also stand for Truth, no matter how difficult this time may be.
