Most Welcome Cross

Persecution and Politics

2011-03-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I feel the need to apologize (again!) for not blogging. It has been more than the week or two that I said I was going to take to get some thoughts in order, etc.

So lets get down to it! Over the last six months or so, I have noticed a growing trend within the persecution watchdog circles to employ the use of politicians and political systems in trying to stop persecution of Christians. Now you may be thinking, "What's wrong with that? We have governments to keep order and to stand up against injustice." Well, that is true, but are there any examples of Christians doing this in the Bible?

When the apostle Peter was unjustly held in prison in Acts, do we see the believers decrying the corrupt authorities and seeking relief through political means? No, and in fact, it says, "but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him." (12:5) The modern church many times marginalizes the power of prayer. Oh we would never say that it wouldn't help or work on behalf of an imprisoned believer, but the way we run to men is very telling about where trust really lies. As a whole, do you think the church has ceased praying without ceasing for the persecuted believers?

"Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body." (Heb. 13:3) We are to remember in prayer those Christians who are in prison as if we were there as well. I don't know about you, but I'd want my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to petition the Highest Power (God) for me if I was in jail for my faith. As believers, we are one body and need to, not only feel the joy, but also the pain of Christ's body of believers.

In closing, I'd like to re-quote a passage from Brother Yun's book, The Heavenly Man,

"Whenever I hear a house church Christian has been imprisoned for Christ in China I don't advise people to pray for his or her release unless the Lord clearly reveals we should pray this way.

Before a chicken is hatched it is vital it is kept in the warm protection of the shell for 21 days. If you take the chick out of that environment one day too early, it will die. similarly, ducks need to remain confined in their shell for 28 days before they are hatched. If you take a duck out on the 27th day, it will die.

There is always a purpose behind why God allows his children to go to prison. Perhaps it's so they can witness to the other prisoners, perhaps God wants to develop more character in their lives. But if we use our own efforts to get them out of prison earlier than God intended, we can thwart his plans, and the believers may come out not as fully formed as God wanted them to be." (p. 313)

When we run to politicians seeking the release of a Christian without knowing it's God's will for that believer to be released, we run the risk of working against god's plan for the person. Who knows what God can do in and through a believer while in jail? As one who hasn't had to face imprisonment in my life yet, that may seem easy to say. However, anyone who knows Brother Yun's story knows that he speaks from experience. God can work miracles, even in a jail cell!

Long Time No Blog

2011-02-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

Sorry that I haven't been posting much. I've been very busy as of late and have felt kind of low on inspiration for posting on here. Hopefully, within the next week or two, I will start up writing again and find out news worthy things to post about.

There are some ideas running through my head that I'm thinking about, but not sure if this is the time or place to blog them. Anyways... guess that's all I have to say for the moment. Enough with the excuses and apologies. :) 'Til next time, God bless!

2011 World Watch List

2011-01-06T11:02:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's hard to believe that the year 2010 has ended and that we're already almost a week into 2011! Where has time gone?

I'm sure many of us can look back over the past year and have fond memories from things done with friends, family, or maybe a church group. For many believers around the world, however, they may look back and think on property damaged, scars (both physical and emotional), and loved ones lost to persecution.

A good way to keep up to date on persecution is by Open Door USA's World Watch List. The 2011 edition just came out and has the the top 50 countries that don't allow religious freedom for Christians. If you're like me, you might just be surprised at some the countries that made it onto the list. For one, Russia is back on it. However, many of the countries are Muslim like Pakistan, Iraq, and Iran.

I would encourage you to take a look at it and then spread the word. You can find a link for the 2011 World Watch on the front page of the Open Doors USA website.

Two Believers Jailed in Vietnam

2010-12-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

I don't have a lot of info on this, but I saw on the Spiritual Courage blog that two Christian evangelists were put into jail in Vietnam. The reason cited was for “undermining national unity." One evangelist was assigned six months in prison and the other one received a four year sentence.

Prison Ministry in Pakistan

2010-12-10T16:01:00.000-08:00

Pakistan: Prison Ministry from Thirteen Three on Vimeo.

Amazed...

2010-12-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

I'm amazed... but not really in a good way. The Persecution Blog reported that today, the Pakistani Christian Association in America and other organizations, held a protest outside the Pakistani Consulate. Why, you might ask? To demand the release of Asia Bibi and repeal of blasphemy law.

As many may know, Asia Bibi has been in the news quite a lot lately. She supposedly blasphemed the "prophet" Mohammed when she stated to some Muslim women harassing her about her faith, “Our Christ is the true prophet of God and yours is not true.”

Asia is in need of much prayer. My question, however, is should those who claim the name of Christ be protesting against the persecution? Do we see this exemplified in the Bible?

When looking at the Bible as a whole and the book of Acts in particular, I think we see the answer. It is a resounding no! When the apostle Peter was imprisoned (Acts 12), did the early believers stage protests decrying the evil government? No, they simply went to the Lord in prayer. When Paul was taken to Rome, did Christians riot and demand his immediate release and equal religious status? My guess is you probably know the answer to that question. No, they didn't.

Christians today have turned to the wrong means for gaining release or reprieve from hard situations and persecution (both for themselves and other believers). Many within the body of Christ don't wait for God to do something great, but instead, seek to change the circumstances by political (or other) means.

Who knows, but if the early Christians had held protests in the book of Acts, things may have turned out different for Peter. However, one thing is sure, they wouldn't have been able to see God work in a miraculous way on their behalf.

These are just some thoughts I have been pondering the last twenty-four hours or so. I grieve to think that instead of turning to the Lord, we have sought help from other places and as a result, lost out on seeing God work wonders.

Somali Christian Shot and Killed

2010-12-05T15:31:00.000-08:00

In what appears to be an "honor killing", a seventeen year old Somali girl was killed on Nov. 25. Nurta Mohamed Farah, had fled her village after her parents tortured her for becoming a Christian. Two men shot Narta in the head and chest, killing her.

"Area sources said they strongly suspected that the two unidentified men in Galgadud Region who shot her in the chest and head with a pistol were relatives or acting on their behest," says Compass Direct.

Iraqi Christians Murdered

2010-12-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

Saw a post on the Persecution Blog that I wanted to alert everyone about. The latest attack on Christians in Iraq happened on Nov. 22, 2010. It involved two Christian brothers who owned and ran a store. Their attackers burst into the store and shot both, Saad Hanna and Waad Hanna. Saad died a few hours later of his wounds and Waad died at the scene of the crime. In a totally separate incident, police found an older Christian woman strangled in her home the same day.

According to the Persecution Blog:

"This violent attack is the latest in a series of attacks on Iraqi Christians in recent years. In October 2008, more than a dozen Christians were killed in Mosul during a two-week period, and more than 2,000 families fled the city. The Christian community in Iraq is estimated at only 1.6 percent of Iraq’s population of about 29 million people, or about 464,000. Since 2003, Christian leaders, churches and businesses in Iraq have been frequent targets of attack by Islamic extremists. As a result, many believers have fled."

I'm sure the Christians in Iraq would like us to remember them in prayer. These deaths will surely have rattled many in the Christian community. May the Lord accomplish what He desires in this tough situation.

The Pope and Persecuted Christians

2010-11-26T10:52:00.000-08:00

Pope Benedict XVI has recently been showing support for the persecuted church. Blogs and different media sources have been picking up on this and in one way or another, making this appear alright. My question is, should born again, Bible-believing Christians be joining forces with Catholics in support of persecuted Christians?

Some may have forgotten, but the "holy" Roman Catholic church was a major instrument for persecution in the Middle Ages. They may have since asked for forgiveness and many would say the Catholic church is OK now. So, lets put that issue aside and just look at what the Bible has to say.

Catholics pray to Mary and many other saints, which is idolatry (this is only one issue with the Catholic church). Idolaters will not inherit the kingdom of heaven (1 Cor. 6:9), therefore many people are aligning themselves with with darkness and the Bible says, "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?"

In our zeal to get the word out about persecution, we should not be unequally yoked with unbelievers, no matter how influential, powerful, and well known they may be.

Verses on Persecution

2010-10-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matt. 5:10-12)

"Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2 Tim. 3:12)

"But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed." (1 Pe. 3:14a)

Pastor Sentenced to Jail

2010-10-25T15:53:00.000-07:00

Just four days ago (Oct. 21), Ilmurad Nurliev, a pentecostal pastor was sentenced to four years in jail in the country of Turkmenistan. He was arrested two months ago after being accused of swindling money from several members of the Light to the World Pentecostal Church. The court also said he would be treated for a drug addiction while in prison.

Nurliev's wife and many members of his congregation say these charges were fabricated to punish him for his work with the unregistered church. The church has emphatically stated the innocence of the pastor and that he does not have a drug addiction, but is diabetic.

When praying for this situation, remember that God has allowed this to come to pass. Pray that Ilmurad Nurliev has a long-lasting impact on those he meets in jail. May the Lord have His way in these Christians' lives!

Attack on Elderly Christians in Pakistan

2010-10-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

An elderly Christian couple has been reported to have been beaten in Pakistan, according to Compass Direct. After refusing a prostitute from two Muslim brothers, the eighty year old man and his seventy-five year old wife were beaten. His arms and legs were broken as was the head of his wife.

The couple was beaten at their house when they refused to comply with the vile orders of the Muslims. The ire of the men was raised when these Christians, who were lower socially, would not do as they were told to do. The husband and wife were struck with small iron rods and clubs. Both were left unconscious after the attack.

I'm sure that prayer would be appreciated for both of these Christians. The Lord can heal both the physical and emotional wounds. He can also help Emmanuel Masih and his wife, Inayatan Bibi, forgive the men who wounded them.

International Day of Prayer

2010-09-26T16:22:00.000-07:00

September is almost through and International Day of Prayer (IDOP) is coming fast! The official date is November 14 and on that day, Christians around the world will "remember those in bonds".

According to VOM, IDOP began in 1996 as "a day for intercessory prayer and citizen action on behalf of persecuted Christian communities worldwide." Please spread the word about the International Day of Prayer and consider getting a small group together to pray for persecuted Christians.

Lord willing, I will post some ideas closer to IDOP about what you can do on Nov. 14.

Christian Aid Workers Killed

2010-09-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

In Northern Afghanistan, ten Christian aid workers were killed on August 5. They had spent three weeks giving medical care to villagers and had stopped for rest in Sharrun Valley, when they were ambushed and murdered. The Taliban (Islamic terrorist group) has claimed responsibility for the murders. Local police, on the other hand, believe the group was attacked and killed by criminals from the area.

I'm sure that prayer would be appreciated for the families of the six Americans, one Briton, one German and two Afghans aid workers who lost their lives. Consider Jesus' promise as you think of the aid workers, "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."

Source here

Yun's Advice on Praying for the Persecuted

2010-08-27T07:16:00.000-07:00

Brother Yun is an amazing man! I had read his book, The Heavenly Man, about seven years ago when I first became a Christian. Going back through it now that I've walked with the Lord for several years made it even better. God gave Yun much wisdom and his advice on praying for Christians that are being persecuted is phenomenal. I'm going to share an excerpt on praying below.

"Whenever I hear a house church Christian has been imprisoned for Christ in China I don't advise people to pray for his or her release unless the Lord clearly reveals we should pray this way.

Before a chicken is hatched it is vital it is kept in the warm protection of the shell for 21 days. If you take the chick out of that environment one day too early, it will die. similarly, ducks need to remain confined in their shell for 28 days before they are hatched. If you take a duck out on the 27th day, it will day.

There is always a purpose behind why God allows his children to go to prison. Perhaps it's so they can witness to the other prisoners, perhaps God wants to develop more character in their lives. But if we use our own efforts to get them out of prison earlier than God intended, we can thwart his plans, and the believers may come out not as fully formed as God wanted them to be." (The Heavenly Man, p. 313)

Brother Yun did not say this lightly or without experience of his own. He spent many years in Chinese prisons for his witness for Christ. He endured many beatings and times of torture for his role as an illegal (in the government of China's eyes) house church leader. He knows the how the Lord can work in a believer's heart while in prison.

For those of us who are believers in the West, this goes against everything we've been taught and experienced. Western believers like comfort and anything that causes discomfort we try to remove as quickly as possible. However, many times the hard, uncomfortable things are what God uses to refine us and make us more Christ-like.

So, instead of praying for the immediate removal of the trials, pray that God's will would be accomplished and that He would be glorified in His children's suffering.

Gao Zhisheng

2010-08-24T16:51:00.000-07:00

I have written about Gao many times before and there is not really any more news since I last blogged about the courageous Chinese brother. I did receive an email recently that says since he was kidnapped again by the government of China on April 20, 2010, no one has seen or heard from Gao Zhisheng. His family does not know whether he is dead or alive at this point.

On August 6, at the American Bar Association, Gao received the International Human Rights Lawyer of the Year Award. His 17 year old daughter, Ge Ge, accepted the reward for him. She said, "Deep in my heart, my father is the type of person I admire very much. He can get over any difficulties, and he is not afraid of anything. I feel that my father is an outstanding father."

In closing, I would like to remind everyone to please keep Gao and his family in your prayers. May the Lord be glorified in this situation!

Trouble in India

2010-08-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

Five days ago, Pastor Satish and evangelist Ravi were leading a service in a home when about 30 people entered the service and began attacking the Christians. The attacking mob said that the believers were forcing locals to convert to Christianity. The police then arrested the Christian leaders and ten other Christians after the attack. As far as VOM knows, all twelve believers are still being held in detention.

Ravi is an evangelist with Campus Crusade for Christ and Satish is a pastor in the Mandya district, Karnataka, India. Please keep our Indian brothers and sisters in your prayers.

Churches in China

2010-08-10T15:38:00.000-07:00

When sharing about persecution in the country of China, sometimes people will disagree and say, "There is religious freedom in China! I've seen pictures of Christians entering churches and worshipping." What many don't realize is that those churches are government sanctioned and run.

Churches that the government allow are part of the Three-Self Patriotic Movement. These are the only "open, legal" churches that the Communist government of China allows. And these are also the churches that many Western people see.

Brother Yun in his book, The Heavenly Man, said, "We see the Three-self Patriotic believers as caged birds. Yes, they are able to sing to the Lord, but their environment is controlled and their wings are clipped. They are free to sing only within the restrictions imposed on them." Government leaders have severely restricted Three-Self pastors. Any sort of ministry outside of the normal Sunday service is not allowed without permission. Evangelism is strongly discouraged and certain parts of the Bible are forbidden from being preached out of. Teaching on the Second Coming of Jesus, divine healing, and the book of Revelation are banned.

When one reads about persecution in the land of China, you can assume that you are reading about Christians in a house church. The government has dedicated a great amount of energy in trying to wipe out the house churches that dot the landscape of China. People within house churches refuse to be bound by an atheistic government telling them how the can and can't live the Christian life. They still honor their leaders and prayer for them, but they have chosen to obey God rather than man.

So, yes, there are churches allowed by the government, but not the true church of Jesus Christ. Churches, but not religious freedom. For an in-depth look at the Three-Self Patriotic Movement, I would encourage you to read The Heavenly Man by Brother Yun and Paul Hattaway.

Son of Hamas

2010-08-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

While the book, Son of Hamas, isn't your typical "persecution" type of book, I found it to be a very helpful read. The author, Mosab Hassan Yousef, is the son of one of the original seven founders of the terrorist organization, Hamas.

Mr. Yousef shines a light into the very center of the Arab-Israeli conflict. He shows the extreme hate on both sides and then goes on to explain the only way for peace in the Middle East. Mosab found himself wrapped up a never ending circle of hate, death, and pain when he started into Hamas. As a son of a founder, he was able to go far with Hamas, but during his time in an Israeli prison, he became disillusioned with "the cause". He then became a collaborator with Israel and saved many innocent lives.

During this time, Mosab began reading the Bible. The teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) really grabbed hold of him. At first he tried reconciling Islam and Christianity, but soon realized it was impossible to do so. One can not take the violent teachings of Islam and try to put Jesus' teachings of love and peace with it. As Mosab said, "Islamic life is like a ladder, with prayer and praising Allah as the bottom rung. The higher rungs represent helping the poor and needy, establishing schools, and supporting charities. The highest rung is jihad." The very nature of Islam promotes violence and Mosab saw at very close range, just what that meant.

It took quite some time, but the truth finally broke through to Mosab Hassan Yousef. he repented and was born again. When his family finally found out they were ashamed of him. However, he has since been granted political asylum in the USA. He still has a deep love for his people and wishes that they may be set free from the lies that Islam teaches. You can read his blog by clicking here.

This book helped me to understand more of what is at the heart of the Middle East conflict and why the Muslims kill innocent people like Christians and Israelis. For an insider's view on what is happening in the Middle East, try reading, Son of Hamas.

Sarah's Trail of Blood

2010-07-28T16:35:00.000-07:00

Two Men Killed in Pakistan

2010-07-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

Two men were killed as they left a courthouse in Pakistan on July 19. The two Christians were facing blasphemy charges after supposedly distributing writings against the Muslim "prophet" Mohammed. According to VOM the two brothers were being lead by police out of the courthouse when masked men opened fire on them.

To read more about this story, click here. Warning: Graphic pictures presented with this story.

Top 10

2010-07-19T05:18:00.000-07:00

According to the Open Doors Prayer Map, the top 10 countries in the world were the Christian faith costs the most are:

1. North Korea

2. Iran

3. Saudi Arabia

4. Somalia

5. Maldives

6. Afghanistan

7. Yemen

8. Mauritania

9. Laos

10. Uzbekistan

It would be a neat thing if you could study up on these countries and get familiar with their culture and religious beliefs. Then maybe you could share about them in a group setting and have a time of prayer targeting the "Top 10".

Interesting Developments...

2010-07-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

According to thenewamerican.com, The Kingdom of Sweden made a surprising eduction "reform". The "Education Act for knowledge, choice, and security" was approved last month amidst strong criticism and opposition.

This bill essentially says that homeschooling is now prohibited and that all public schools must all use the same government curriculum. This is a noticeable downturn towards totalitarianism in Sweden.

Homeschooling in Sweden may have been tough already, but now it's been done away with all together. Looks like the only "choice" is for those in the government, not for the people of Sweden.

This may be a slight departure from my normal posts, but I believe this is how persecution starts at times. When governments start saying how one must teach your child, etc. it's not long before they start telling you what you must believe. Christians will need to stand strong in Sweden. Please pray that the Lord will grant wisdom to Swedish Christians and that they will handle this situation in a godly way.

Click here to read the whole article.

Christians Beaten in Nepal

2010-07-12T18:32:00.000-07:00

On June 13, a pastor and his congregation were attacked by Maoist rebels in the country of Nepal. The church was assembled together for an evening prayer meeting when the rebels demanded that they stop. When the congregation refused to stop the meeting, the rebels attacked.

The pastor talked to the Maoists before they attacked asking them to come back the next day to talk. However, this only resulted in him getting beaten by them. The congregation, including the pastor's father and mother, tried to defend him, but they too were attacked. The rebels also burnt Bibles and hymnals during the attack.

The Persecution Blog also reports:

"The following day, local villagers accused the Christians of not paying the “temple tax” and of 'converting the local people to Christianity.' Each family was ordered to pay the exorbitant tax, and Christians have been warned that they will be expelled from the village if they do not pay. Some believers have voluntarily left the village, and those remaining risk losing their homes."

Stay updated on stories like this at the Persecution Blog and at VOM's main website here.

Freedom

2010-07-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

Many in the USA celebrated Independence day yesterday. Lots of people remembered the freedom that was won from Great Britain and this is commonly celebrated on the 4th of July. As America celebrated those freedoms, I thought of our brothers and sisters in Christ who don't share in anything resembling this type of freedom in their countries.

For Christians in countries like Nigeria, China, Iran, Sudan, Egypt, and North Korea, basic human rights aren't even allowed. Because these people have decided to follow Christ and live for the Kingdom of heaven, they suffer deprivation, torture, and death.

However, many of those same people have more freedom than people in Western countries. How? They are living for Christ now, counting the costs, and knowing that they may even have to die for their faith.

The Bible says, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." Jesus brings freedom even if a government doesn't allow you to worship publicly or you can't wear you Christian t-shirt in public. True freedom is in the heart, not what one can do in an earthly country.

In the June issue of VOM's newsletter, I read about a man who shows this type of freedom. Abdulmasi was raised as a Muslim in Nigeria. He killed Christians and even acted like he was a Christian so he could infiltrate churches. One day, the Lord got a hold of him and he repented of his sins and stepped into the freedom that can only come from Christ.

He has since been persecuted by Muslims and he has even lost his own son to the brutality of Islamic extremists. He has had a mob of 2,000 Muslims surround his home seeking to kill him and his family. Through all of this, he still chooses to shine his light for Jesus and tell about the freedom that comes through Him.

So, when you think of freedom, don't only think of political freedom that last for a short while. Think of the true lasting freedom that Christ brings when a person repents and turns to Him.

Christ has come to set the captive free!

Corrie ten Boom Quotes

2010-07-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

I'm sure many of you have read the book, The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom. For those of you who haven't, it is a gripping book that shares about a Dutch woman who helped Jews during the Nazi occupation during World War 2. She was betrayed by a fellow Dutchman and ends up in Ravensbruck, one of the worst concentration camps for women. She lost her sister Betsy in that camp and her father died in a separate camp. However, the Lord brought her through all the persecution and she was left with a challenging testimony of forgiveness. Below are some quotes by Corrie:

"Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength."

"Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."

"Hold everything in your hands lightly, otherwise it hurts when God pries your fingers open."

"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. If you look at God you'll be at rest."

"Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden."

"It is not my ability, but my response to God’s ability, that counts."

If you have read The Hiding Place and want to read more by ( or about) Miss ten Boom, I would encourage you to read Tramp for the Lord, Prisoner and Yet, In My Father's House: The Years Before the Hiding Place, Marching Orders for the End Battle, and The Five Silent Years of Corrie ten Boom. These books have been a real help to me and you know that Corrie isn't speaking about things she hasn't lived. She lived through terrible trials, but allowed God to mold her through those trials and then she had a story to tell.

Richard Wurmbrand: Founder of VOM

2010-06-28T05:53:00.000-07:00

I'm sure that many of you have read books from Voice of the Martyrs and some of you probably receive their monthly newsletter. However, how many of you know about VOM's founder, Richard Wurmbrand?

Richard, and his wife Sabina, were courageous Christians that lived in Romania during the period when Communists were taking over. As a matter of fact, Richard (who was a pastor), got his church to go out and greet the Communists and show them love.

Richard and Sabina attended the 1945 "Congress of Cults", where many religious leaders swore loyalty to the new communist regime. Sabina told Richard that he needed to stand up and "wipe the shame from the face of Jesus." Pastor Wurmbrand knew the cost and stepped forward and told 4,000 people that their duty was to glorify God and Christ alone.

On a Sunday morning as Richard was leaving church, the secret police kidnapped and placed him in solitary confinement. For eight years he endured horrific torture and deprivation at the hands of his communist captors. During this time, Sabina Wurmbrand is also sent to a labor camp, leaving their son to fend for himself.

I would encourage you to read more about this courageous couple. You could check out the site dedicated to the memory of Mr. Wurmbrand or you could read his first hand account in his book, Tortured for Christ. You can find a DVD about Pastor Wurmbrand for children here. Please also check out Mrs. Wurmbrand's book called The Pastor's Wife.

A Distant Grief

2010-06-25T18:20:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I last wrote about a book that pertains to martyrdom or some form of persecution.

A while back I had the chance to read A Distant Grief by F. Kefa Sempangi. My mom had actually read it first and told me that she thought I would like it. She was right! I read it in less than twenty-four hours.

A Distant Grief shares about the persecuted and martyred Christians in Uganda during Idi Amin's reign of terror. When Amin first came into power, many thought it would bring back peace and prosperity to a desperate, war-torn country. For a short while, that seemed to be the case.

Rumors started flying around shortly after Idi Amin's rise to power. People said bodies were found floating in the Nile River and other hard-to-believe things. It was true. Amin, in his paranoia, began systematically removing all those who he thought threatened his power and authority.

The Church was one of those things. Idi Amin (who had converted to Islam) began persecuting Christians in a harsh way. Those who spoke out against him or shared the Gospel of Christ were found, tortured in horrendous ways, and then killed.

Did the Church survive this extreme persecution? Yes. It continued sharing Christ with unbelievers, it took care of the orphans and widows, and it witnessed to those who were causing so much pain to the whole country of Uganda. The author, F. Kefa Sempangi, was threatened by Amin's brutal henchmen more than once.

I found this story heartrending, but hope inspiring at the same time. A whole generation of children witnessed brutal killings (many times of their loved ones) and the Church in Uganda lost many leaders, but in the end, Christ won out. Many souls were saved when the tough times came and the Church was purified through Amin's dictatorship.

If you're looking for a challenging read, A Distant Grief is the book for you. It has had an impact on my life that few other books have had. Consider reading it this summer!

NOTE: Due to the horrible nature of Amin's crimes, this book is not recommended for young children or those with a sensitive nature.

Three Christians Arrested in Dearborn, MI

2010-06-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

The news in this post hits just a little too close to home. Dearborn, Michigan is considered by many to by the Muslim capital of the USA. There are mosques and many Muslims living in and around this city in northern America.

On June 19, three Christian men were witnessing at the Arab International Festival. During an intense, yet respectful dialog, the police arrested Dr. Nabeel Qureshi, David Woods, and Paul Rezkalla.

According to the Persecution Times article, Steven Atkins, a resident of Toronto, Canada, said, “I never thought I would see this in America." Mr. Atkins went on to say, “When Dr. Quereshi was arrested I heard people clapping and applauding, and some said ‘Allahu Akbar.’” There appeared to be a crowd of around 15-20 people listening to the discussion and then witnessing the arrest.

Mr. Atkins also said, “It was an intense discussion, but it was not unruly. There was no threat of violence. It’s becoming more restrictive here than in Canada.” I believe things like this will become more and more commonplace here in the "land of the free." Pray that God will protect these gentlemen and that many Muslims will find Jesus.

Update on Gao Zhisheng

2010-06-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I received on update on Gao Zhisheng or his family. The latest one is not encouraging. As we last knew, he was still being held under tight security by the Chinese government, but he did contact his family.

During April 15 and 16, Gao visited his in-laws in Xinjiang and told them that he would be flying to his apartment in Beijing on April 20. He never arrived back home and nobody has seen or heard from him since.

Once again Gao Zhisheng has disappeared and China Aid does not know where he is or how to contact him. Please pray for his safety and for repentance amongst the leaders of China. Pray also for Gao's family, this is a most stressful situation for them.

A Book Worth Dying For

2010-06-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

As Christian, we believe the Bible is the Word of God. It was inspired by Him (2 Tim. 3:16) and will help us in all areas of life. However, not everyone looks at the Bible in that way.

Muslims (among other religious groups) have a great disdain for the Bible. Why? There are many different reasons, a couple of which are, it shows Jesus to be God and they believe it is corrupted by Christians. Many times we read about Christian having to choose whether or not they will stand with the Bible or reject it. Sometimes followers of Islam will try to force Christians to spit on the Bible or in someway reject and desecrate it.

However, the true believers always stand with the Word of God, even if it means that their life will be taken from them. Through out the centuries, Christians have had to make this choice. Time and time again, they have picked honoring God by standing with His Word, over apparent "life".

Is the Word of God something that you're willing to die for? If you had to pick the Bible over life, would you do it? Get a hold of Foxe: Voices of the Martyrs or subscribe to VOM's newsletters and read about people who are dying for the Lord and His Word.

Trouble in Afghanistan

2010-06-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the super long hiatus. I realize I've been a bad blogger and I'm hoping to mend that (Planning to starting writing more on MWC again, as time permits.) So lets get right down to it!

According to VOM, on May 31, the government of Afghanistan suspended the work of two different Christian relief organizations. Why? There were suspicions that they may be trying to convert Afghans to Christianity. This would constitute a crime in the Muslim country of Afghanistan.

This is the latest setback for Christians in Afghanistan. In 2007, the Taliban kidnapped 23 South Korean aid workers from a church group. Two of these workers were killed and the others were released a month later.

As Christians, prayer should be our first response to this type of news, not anger. Please join me in praying that the Lord will bind the enemy (Satan, not the people) and that His Word would be proclaimed to the Afghans.

Update on Gao Zhisheng

2010-01-20T10:43:00.000-08:00

Rumors have been flying around since December 2009 that Gao Zhisheng has died from the brutal torture he received at the hands of Chinese police. Recently, Gao's brother, Zhiyi sought and found the police that originally detained Gao. He was told that Gao "went missing while out on a walk".

This is the first time the Chinese government has actually said anything leading to the belief that they no longer have Gao in custody. ChinaAid believes this means Zhisheng's health has taken a turn for the worse.

Bob Fu, president of ChinaAid, says ""We have every reason to suspect that the Chinese government has something very serious to hide. Gao's family has every right to know what happened to him. It is unbelievable that a high security prisoner would go missing while 'out on a walk,' without suspecting that there is a major cover up of his condition."

Please pray fro Gao's family. They are under extreme stress because they don't know what has happened to their husband/father/brother. Gao's daughter, Gege became very emotionally upset upon hearing the rumors of his death and had to be placed in a hospital. Pray that the leaders of China will stop persecuting Christians and that they will turn to Christ.

For more updates on the persecuted church, please check out the Persecution Blog.

Open Doors World Watch List 2010

2010-01-06T11:05:00.000-08:00

Day 308: Gao Not Doing Well

2009-12-10T05:57:00.000-08:00

In an email update I received about Gao Zhisheng, VOM and ChinaAid say he is not doing well. Quoting from the email: "ChinaAid recently received another report from inside sources in China that Gao Zhisheng has been severely beaten by authorities. The report stated his current living condition is worse than death and that Gao is crying daily in pain and desperation."

China has responded to pressure, but not in a good way. They refuse to release Gao and the Chinese government has also cut off communication with two of Mr. Zhisheng's siblings.

Gao's older brother, Gao Zhiyi, said, "For every question, there are three unknowns. No one knows anything. They won't talk to us and they won't meet with us... Even if Gao Zhisheng had committed a terrible crime, his family would still have the right to know what had happened to him!"

If you have not already done so, please sign the petition at FreeGao.com and ask that they release Gao Zhisheng. This is an awesome way for Christians to ask for the release of a hurting brother. Add your voice to the 117,196 people that are speaking out for Gao already.

Also, please pray. This is a Christian's greatest "weapon" in this world. Ultimately, we are not struggling against humans, but we are struggling against dark spiritual forces that want to destroy Christians and keep people in bondage.

Rachel Scott

2009-11-10T10:07:00.000-08:00

" I have no more personal friends at school. But you know what... it's all worth it to me. I am no going to apologize for speaking the name of Jesus, I am not going to justify my faith to them, and I am not going to hide the light that God has put in me. If my friends have to become my enemies for me to be with my best friend Jesus, then that's fine with me. Ya know, I always knew that part of being a Christian is having enemies... but I never thought that my "friends" were going to be those enemies."

Those astounding words came from Rachel Scott right after having some good friends reject her when she took a stand for Christ.

Many of you will probably remember the Columbine High School shooting of April 20, 1999. Rachel was one of the students killed in that shooting. The two young men that perpetrated the crime had, before-hand, singled her out to die because they had a great disdain for her Christian faith.

On that fateful day, Rachel was outside eating her lunch with a friend when the gunmen came out and open fire on her. She was wounded in the legs and was trying to crawl to safety when they returned and asked her if she believed in God. She said she did and a bullet to the head ended her life here on earth. She was a believer in life, a martyr at death, and a child of God that is now in heaven with her Savior.

"I Beg You to take Revenge..."

2009-11-09T11:00:00.000-08:00

"'I beg you to take revenge . . . '

The readers of the letter from Spanish martyr, Bartolome Marquez, were shocked to see a call for revenge in his final letter. Then they saw that his call was not for human bloodshed to avenge him, but for more people to come under the blood of Jesus.

'I beg you to take Christian revenge by trying to do good to those who do me evil,' Marquez challenged other believers. 'I hope to see you where I will be soon, in heaven.'

The Spanish Communists killed Marquez, along with many other pastors, in 1939. His final letter was an epistle of joy to his wife and Christian brothers and sisters."

To read the rest of this interesting post, click through to the Persecution Blog.

Last Reminder

2009-11-05T07:50:00.000-08:00

This Sunday (Nov. 8) is IDOP. Please join in with thousands of other Christians as we lift the persecuted believers to the Lord.

Christians Persecuted in the UK

2009-10-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

Pray for the Persecuted

2009-10-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

The month of October is flying by very quickly. Before you know it, we'll be right into November. If you haven't already marked your calenders for Nov. 8, you should. November 8 is the International Day of Prayer (IDOP) for the persecuted church.

You will be praying along with thousands of other believers worldwide for those are suffering for the sake of Christ. Please consider ordering the 2009 IDOP kit and sharing it at your church or maybe with a group of friends. Go to VOM's IDOP web page, here, and get prepaired to spread the news!

What is a Martyr?

2009-10-05T09:34:00.000-07:00

The word martyr is only used twice in the whole Bible. However, if you look up what it means in the Greek, it's literal meaning is "a witness". This is very interesting to me. Stephen, the first martyr of the Church, witnessed not only with his words, but also his death (Acts 7).

T.S. Eliot described a martyr as one "who has become an instrument of God, who has lost his will in the will of God, not lost it but found it, for he has found freedom in submission to God. The martyr no longer desires anything for himself, not even the glory of martyrdom."

What do you think a martyr is?

Christians Crucified in South Sudan

2009-10-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

Seven Christians were recently found crucified in southern Sudan. Villagers found the bodies of the believers near the town of Nzara.

Who committed this horrific crime? The prime suspects are marauding soldiers from the Lord's Resistance Army. These guerrillas are also reported to have attacked two churches, desecrating the buildings and kidnapping several Christian young people.

To read more about this and watch a video of Todd Nettleton (who is a spokesperson for VOM) speak about the killings, click here.

Home Schooled Girl Ordered to Attend Public School

2009-09-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

This post is a slight departure from the norm on MWC. Normally I try to focus persecuted believers in China, Pakistan, etc. However, today's post will be a little closer to home for some of us.

Amanda Voydatch is a home schooled girl who lives with her mother. Brenda Voydatch, Amanda's mother, has home schooled her daughter since she entered school. Martin Kurowski, who is not a Christian, says his daughter should be removed from homeschool and placed in public school.

The court who looked into the case found that Amanda's mother was using curriculum that exceeds the state review standards. In spite of these findings, since the investigator found that "Amanda appeared to reflect her mother's rigidity on questions of faith" and her "vigorous defense of her religious beliefs to (her) counselor suggests strongly that she has not had the opportunity to seriously consider any other point of view", the judge ordered Amanda to attend public school.

This is a form of persecution. Please pray for Brenda Voydatch and her daughter Amanda as they go through this tough time. The Alliance Defence Fund is working to get Amanda out of public school and back home with the best teacher she could ever have, her mom. Read more at the Persecution Blog.

Day 225: Gao Alive!

2009-09-17T16:27:00.000-07:00

I just received an email from VOM, Gao Zhisheng is alive! News was received from the Chinese Embassy in Washington DC that Gao was put on parole in August. ChinaAid has confirmed this, but his condition and whereabouts are unknown.

Thanks to all those who signed the petition requesting Gao Zhisheng's release. Over 110,00 people signed the petition!

Please keep praying for Gao and his family. Ask the Lord to do a mighty work through this man. Pray that physical, emotional, and spiritual healing would come from God.

Heather Mercer Discusses Ramadan

2009-09-17T06:34:00.000-07:00

"Night of Power"

2009-09-16T18:04:00.000-07:00

Laylat al-Qadr is tonight. This is what the Muslims call the "Night of Power" in Ramadan and they seek forgiveness for their sins. Please pray that as Muslims around the world seek forgiveness that they'll find it in Jesus Christ. What an awesome opportunity for us to pray for these seeking people!

Living Martyrs

2009-09-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

Living martyrs....Sounds like an oxymoron, doesn't it? How can you be living and yet a martyr? I would propose that there are such people as living martyrs.

Think of the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3. They were told to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's golden image, but they refused. The king got extremely angry and declared that the three Hebrews should be thrown into a fiery furnace. How did the three Hebrews reply?

"O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he well deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you set up." (Daniel 3:16b-18)

These young men had made up their minds to follow the Lord even when it, in all probability, would cost them their lives. They were prepared to follow God even if that meant it would lead them into a fiery furnace.

The Lord did protect them, even when they were thrown into the fire. When they got out of the furnace, they came out without even so much as the smell of fire on them! So, I believe that these young men were living martyrs because they stood for the Lord, the king tried killing them, but their lives were miraculously saved.

Can you think of any more examples of living martyrs?

IDOP 2009

2009-09-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Mark your calenders! November 8th is the International Day of Prayer (IDOP) for the persecuted church. Please get the word out about it. If your church doesn't know about it, consider getting an IDOP kit that will help you spread the news. You can get a free kit from Open Doors, which includes items like a banner, two compelling short videos, and many other things.

"Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them..." (Heb. 13:3)

A Bruised Flower Gives Perfume

2009-09-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

"A flower if you bruise it under your feet, rewards you by give you its perfume." (Richard Wurmbrand)

He stood up in front of 1,000 pastors in Communist Romania and denounced the oppression of the regime and the compromise of the Church. For that, Richard Wurmbrand was sent to prison to be "bruised" under the feet of many guards and torturers. During those fourteen long years, Mr. Wurmbrand give off a beautiful perfume for his Lord. He sought to bless his persecutors and give God praise even during times of extreme pain and loneliness.

In 1964, Richard and his wife Sabina, started the ministry, Voice of the Martyrs. Even though the Wurmbrands have gone to be with the Lord, their ministry continues to help persecuted Christians across the globe.

Check out a special website dedicated to the memory of Richard Wurmbrand by clicking on this link. You will be blessed as you read about this man of faith!

Christians Falsely Accused in India

2009-09-09T06:47:00.000-07:00

According to the Persecution Blog, Pastor Kamlesh Tahed and three other Christians were falsely accused of murder by Hindus in the country of India.

On August 8, Roop Baria was killed during a fight between the Tahed and Baria clans over 1,000 rupees (which equals $20 US). For the complete story, go to the Persecution Blog.

Going to Church Can Be Dangerous!

2009-09-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

Going to church doesn't seem like a dangerous thing to do. At least not most of the time, but let's take an imaginary trip.

You get to church and the worship has already started. Your family slips into the pew that they normally do and you go and sit with your friends. The Spirit is really there and everyone is focused on worshiping their Creator.

Then, you sit and listen attentively as your pastor opens the Word. His teaching is really good and you're spell-bound as he talks about dying for Christ. Suddenly, a loud explosion happens very close to you. You feel searing pain course through your body and you notice that several of your friends are lying on the floor, blood starting to pool around them.

People are screaming and running around. Smoke fills the air and it smells as if something is burning. Slowly, it starts to dawn on you that a bomb was planted in the sanctuary and that many people were probably hurt. Then you look down at your arms and see blood running down them. Until now, what was only a distant pain, becomes increasingly noticeable. You run for help, but can't get out because there are too many people trying to get out the doors.

Finally you get out and receive medical attention. Then reports of deaths and severe injuries start reaching you. Some of your best friends were killed by the shrapnel and nails that came from the bomb. Some of your brothers and sisters in Christ were badly burnt and many more are suffering trauma from what they saw.

This may seem far-fetched to some people, but for many believers in other countries, this is something that is far too normal. They might go to church wondering if they'll come out alive or if the police will break up the meeting and take some of them to jail.

On May 23, 2009, a newlywed couple, Vikash and Deepa Patrick, experienced this. They were honeymooning in Nepal and before they went back to India, they stopped by a church. A bomb exploded and the wife, Deepa, was killed. Please pray for Vikash and all those who lost loved ones in the bombing.

To learn of more stories like this, please visit VOM's website here.

This post inspired by VOM's September 2009 newsletter.

Why Do They Do It?

2009-08-28T10:45:00.000-07:00

So often after reading stories of persecution, I think to myself, "Why? Why do the authorities or religious zealots torture and kill like they do?" The Christians didn't do anything to deserve that type of treatment, but still they suffer.

Then as I thought about it, I was reminded of the spiritual battle we're in every day (Eph. 6:12). It's the spirits of darkness that are really persecuting believers, even though to us it looks like wicked government officials are causing it.

Read what Karl Marx said: "We make war against all prevailing ideas of religion, of state, of country, of patriotism. The idea of God is the keynote of a perverted civilization. It must be destroyed." This is not just a depraved human speaking, the spirit behind this quote comes from the very pit of hell itself. It's Satan once again setting himself up against the Almighty God.

So, as you read stories of Christians being persecuted. Remember that there is an enemy that is behind all persecution. He's out trying to kill, steal, and destroy. However, Jesus came that we may have life and that we may have it abundantly!

Check out the Persecution Blog for more stories and updates on the persecuted church.

This post was inspired by the August 2009 VOM newsletter.

Prayer Bulletin #2

2009-08-28T04:50:00.000-07:00

Today's prayer bulletin is for the house churches in China. There are many house churches active in the Shandong province, however, the believers suffer great poverty in the rural areas. The numbers in the churches remain comparatively low. Please pray that God will do a mighty work and save and strengthen many people.

To receive daily prayer bulletins, subscribe to Open Doors USA newsletter.

Project Hope

2009-08-26T13:49:00.001-07:00

Pregnant Christian Dragged around Police Compound

2009-08-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

Accused of theft along with a Muslim woman, Farzana Bibi (who is a Christian), was tortured, stripped naked, and then dragged around the police station in Pakistan. Not only did Farzana tell the police that she was pregnant, but the Muslim woman was not treated harshly like the Christian woman. There was also no evidence that Bibi had stolen anything from her wealthy Muslim boss.

Read more at the Persecution Blog!

Prayer Bulletin

2009-08-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

Open Doors USA sends out a two month prayer bulletin with their news letters. I find it extremely helpful in praying for the persecuted church.

Today's request is for the country of Maldives:

"Maldivians enjoy a high literacy rate, but the Bible is not yet translated into their language. Pray for God to open opportunities for His word to be translated into the local language."

Christian Workers Beheaded

2009-08-16T10:26:00.000-07:00

Recently in Somalia, members of the Islamic extremist group, Al-Shabaab, kidnapped for Christian orphanage works. After refusing to deny their faith in Jesus Christ, Fatima Sultan, Ali Ma'ow, Sheik Mohammed Abdi, and Maaddey Diil were beheaded. For the complete story, read here.

VOM Interview of Steve Green

2009-08-10T16:28:00.001-07:00

Stunning Post: What about Pardons for Thousands More of North Korea Prisoners?

2009-08-10T16:23:00.000-07:00

Two U.S. journalists were released recently from North Korea. Read a response on the Spiritual Courage blog here. Very thought provoking!

Praise God!

2009-08-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

On the fifth of August, Voice of the Martyrs' Bibles Unbound mailed their 1 millionth Bible. Bibles Unbound send Bibles in to countries like Columbia, North Korea, Egypt, and China. Praise the Lord that His Word is getting into "closed" countries!

Check out VOM's article, here!

Christians Burned to Death in Pakistan

2009-08-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

Check out the sad story on the Persecution Blog about deaths cause by Islamic attacks in Pakistan. Read here!

Don't Forget!

2009-07-25T17:58:00.000-07:00

Don't Forget! Tomorrow, the Christian pastors in Pakistan have asked us to join them in prayer for their nation. To know more, read this post from a couple of days ago. Then go tell others about it and get on your knees in prayer!

Thanks for praying, I know it means much to our persecuted brethren.

Take It Away!

2009-07-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

It's day 168 after Gao Zhisheng's kidnapping and ChinaAid did deliver our petitions (over 10, 000!) to the Chinese Embassy. Sadly, when the embassy staff saw what it was, she said, "I'm sorry, sir, I'm sorry! Take it away!"

David E. Taylor, who is the American attorney who tried to deliver the petition, left it at the front door saying, "The Chinese Embassy was legally served with the petition even though they tried to avoid it."

Don't give up, God can do miracles! Keep praying that God Almighty will move on the hearts of the Chinese officials. Also, pray for Gao and his family, that the Lord will provide for their every need.

Day of Prayer in Pakistan

2009-07-22T06:48:00.000-07:00

A day of prayer has been called for Pakistan on July 26, 2009. More than 316 Pakistani pastors have agreed to pray for persecuted believers. There is also a petition out aimed at repealing the blasphemy laws that have lead to the arrests of many Christians.

Please pray for Christian believers in Pakistan. In recent weeks, the persecution has intensified greatly.

Here is just one example:

"On June 26, more than 150 Muslim extremists attacked more than 150 Christian families, poured kerosene on a believer and tried to burn her, burned 16 homes, damaged 60, two donkey carts and destroyed 25 electricity meters, in Kasur, Pakistan." (Quote taken from here)

So, join in prayer our Christian brother and sisters in Christ for the Persecuted in Pakistan. Pray that many Muslims will come to know Jesus and His love for them.

Good Read: What If Your Town Banned Christianity?

2009-07-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest post at Spiritual Courage. It entitled What If Your Town Banned Christianity, I found it thought provoking.

Raid on Christian Youth Camp

2009-07-15T09:16:00.001-07:00

On July 13 at 10:30 AM, police made a raid on a Christian Youth camp in Tengzhou city, Shandong province. 28 Christian youth and 4 adult workers were arrested. The police then threatened and beat the youth. also, five of the people who organized the camp are still being held in prison for another 5-15 days.

China Aid reports that the youth are still in shock, so please pray that they will recover quickly.

For more stories like this, please check out the Persecution Blog.

The Dangerous Book

2009-07-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

Christians' Livestock Slaughtered in Laos

2009-07-14T07:49:00.000-07:00

As a punishment for converting to Christianity, officals and residents of Katin village, confiscated and killed livestock that belonged to nine Christian families on July 5. This was an effort to force them to renounce their faith in Jesus Christ.

To read more go to the Persecution Blog!

Pastor and Wife Sent to Labor Camp in Henan

2009-07-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, Pastor Dou Shaowen and his wife Feng Lu were sent to a labor camp for one year of "re-education" because of their “engaging in illegal religious activities.” For the whole story, click on this link.

Also, on the link is contact information so you can request that the Zhengzhou city authorities release these Christians.

VOM on Twitter

2009-06-26T16:57:00.000-07:00

For those of you who use Twitter, VOM is now tweeting! Check their account out here and get quick, concise updates on the persecuted church.

Kids of Courage

2009-06-26T16:51:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a way to introduce your kids to the stories of persecuted Christians, but don't want graphic info or picture, then Kids of Courage is for you! There are many faith-building stories of children and young people that have endured much for Jesus.

Not only does Kids of Courage have updates and news, it also has activities like writing in ancient languages and how to bake recipes from the countries the kids are reading about.

Christian Tortured in Pakistan

2009-06-24T14:47:00.000-07:00

On June 23, it was reported that a 37 year old man is languishing in a Pakistani jail. This was after his back was broken by police because his father was preaching Christ.

Arshad Masih had been in a hospital – chained to his bed on false robbery
charges – after police torture that began Dec. 28, 2008 left him incapacitated.
He was discharged from General Hospital in Lahore on Saturday (June 20) and
returned to jail despite efforts by the Community Development Initiative (CDI),
a support group that is providing Masih legal assistance.

Pray that justice will be found for this man and also that he will keep a strong testimony before unbelievers. To read the whole article, click here.

Extreme Quote

2009-06-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

Before prison we heard about God. But in prison we experienced God. -Pastor Sze, A Chinese house church leader

Where'd this quote come from? Find it and more inspiring quotes and stories in the Extreme Devotion book from VOM.

Christian Pakistani Woman Arrested

2009-06-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

Asia Bibi, a 37-year-old Pakistani woman from the village of Ittanwali, was
arrested by police on Friday, June 19, and faces possible blasphemy charges.
Asia is the wife of 50-year-old Ashiq Masih, and their family is one of only
three Christian families in a village of more than 1,500 families.

Bibi told women how Jesus died for them and then asked them what Mohammed had done for them. She also said that Jesus was alive, but Mohammed was dead.

Pray that Asia Bibi will stand strong for Christ and that the Lord will protect her while in prison.

Quote taken from here.

"The Truth Does Not Change..."

2009-06-16T15:33:00.000-07:00

"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" (Jn. 14:6 ESV)

Not only does the Bible say that Jesus is "the truth" it also says He is "the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Heb. 13:8). Therefore, we know that "the truth" never changes. Serghey Mechen also believed this and applied it to the persecuted.

Serghey lived in Russia (around 1923) when the Communists took over and things were changing drastically. The Russian government had launched the "Living Church" which was nothing more than communism dressed up in "Christianity". So, when asked to comply with the Communists in reading the prescribed prayers and preaching watered-down sermons, Pastor Mechen refused. He made the decision to preach the truth to his flock, even when he knew it might cause him personal suffering.

Then, for five years, Serghey was imprisoned and the government closed his church down. However, his imprisonment only prepared Mechen even more for the Christian ministry. He believed in Jesus' words that "a good shepherd gives his life for his sheep." In the end, Serghey Mechen was executed (in 1941) by a firing squad for his Christian activities. His messages still remains though, "The truth does not change to benefit one's needs."

Crossing

2009-06-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the people at Spiritual Courage, I heard about a movie called Crossing. I watched the trailer on YouTube and even though it was only two minutes long, I found myself crying. Just wanted to share it here (some violence, user discretion advised). What a heart-wrenching place the people of North Korea are in.

To find out more about Crossing, please go to the movie website.

Church Raid in Iran

2009-06-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

According to Farsi Christian Network News, five new Christians were arrested by plain clothes security officers on May 21. They believers were meeting in a house church when the police made the raid, the church leader, Javad Abtahi was among those arrested.

The families of those arrested have tried asking the government where their loved ones are being held, but to no avail. Please keep these Christians and their families in your prayers. Also, pray that the Iranian government will stop harassing Christians and allow them religious freedom.

Full Story

Top 50 Countries

2009-06-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here is the last instalment of the tops 50 countries that persecute Christians. Once again, the countries in bold are where believers are persecuted under radical Islam.

1. North Korea

2. Saudi Arabia

3. Iran

4. Afghanistan

5. Somalia

6. Maldives

7. Yemen

8. Laos

9. Eritrea

10. Uzbekistan

Must Watch- Something Extraordinary is Happening

2009-06-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Top 50 Countries

2009-06-01T15:46:00.000-07:00

Continuing the list of the top 50 countries that persecute Christians. The bold countries are where Christians suffer under Islam.

11. Bhutan

12. China

13. Pakistan

14. Turkmenistan

15. Comoros

16. Iraq

17. Qatar

18. Mauritania

19. Algeria

20. Chechnya

Top 50 Countries

2009-05-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

21. Egypt

22. India

23. Vietnam

24. Burma/Myanmar

25. Libya

26. Nigeria (North)

27. Azerbaijan

28. Oman

29. Brunei

30. Sudan (North)

Again, countries that are bold signify that Christians suffer great opposition and persecution from radical Islam.

Top 50 Countries

2009-05-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

Here's the next ten on the list:

31. Zanzibar Islands

32. Kuwait

33. Cuba

34. Tajikistan

35. United Arab Emirates

36. Sri Lanka

37. Jordan

38. Djibouti

39. Turkey

40. Morocco

The countries that are bold are where Christians suffer greatly under radical Islam.

Top 50 Countries

2009-05-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Open Doors USA has sent out a list of the top 50 countries that persecute Christians. Since some people may not receive this list, I'm going to post them. I will start at the bottom of the list. With each post I will work my way up the list to the countries that persecute Christians the most.

41. Indonesia

42. Palestinian Territory

43. Bangladesh

44. Belarus

45. Ethiopia

46. Syria

47. Tunisia

48. Bahrain

49. Kenya

50. Kazakhstan

The countries that are bold are where Christians suffer greatly under radical Islam.

Authorities Threaten Christian in Turkmenistan

2009-05-26T06:56:00.000-07:00

Turkmenistan authorities have threatened to seize the property of Shageldy Atakov. In 1999, Shageldy was imprisoned with charges of swindling another person of US $12,000 in a car deal. However, many Christians believe these were false charges aimed at stopping Atakov's Christian activities. While imprisoned in Seydi Labor Camp, he was beaten repeatedly, given inadequate medical care, and forced to take psychotropic drugs when he refused to leave his faith.

Now, ten years later, the authorities are threatening to take his property if he does not pay a large sum of money. They claim he acquired it in an illegal way in 1995.

Pray that any lies about Shageldy Atakov will be exposed and that he will be strengthened by the Lord during this rough time.

Materialism and Persecution

2009-05-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

"Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." -Matthew 10:37-39

Materialism is a very subtle way the enemy gets Christians side-tracked. Out of the many stories that I've read of the Persecuted, this is one of the causes why some turn back and deny their Lord. They believe they have so much to lose, but what they do not realize is that Satan has blinded them to what they will really lose if they go after the things of this world.

Our eyes need to be on Jesus and we need to take up our cross daily. This is a major step that will help conquer the strangle hold of materialism (Especially for those of us who live in a western nation). Pray for believers everywhere that they will be willing and able to give up all for Christ.

105 Days of Prison for Gao Zhisheng

2009-05-20T03:27:00.000-07:00

Today marks 105 days since Chinese Christian attorney, Gao Zhisheng, was kidnapped by Chinese police. Please pray for him and his family.

Also, if you have not already signed the petition for his realise. Hopefully, this will make the government of China aware that the world is watching. Follow this link to sign the petition and to watch a short video about Gao.

Richard Wurmbrand Video

2009-05-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

Standing Strong Through the Storm

2009-05-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

Standing Strong Through the Storm is a book compiled by Paul Estabrooks and Jim Cunningham. This book teaches how to be a victor in your Christian walk, even when going through persecution.

Here's a couple of reviews from the book:

"This is an excellent work. It is thorough, practical, well-supported biblically but also effectively illustrated from the experiences of the suffering people of God." --Terrance L. Tiessen, PhD, Professor of Systematic Theology, Providence College & Seminary, Otterburn, MB, Canada

"If we had the SSTS materials in my time we would have had help to exist as persecuted Christians." A seventy-six-your- old pastor, interred for ten years, soviet Gulag, Russia

This book is almost 400 pages long, but it is broken up into five sections.

1. Who is Our Enemy?

2. Provisions for Victory

3. Training in Righteousness

4. The Way of the Cross Today

5. The Victorious Church and Family

Although I have not finished this book yet, I am already very excited about the things I am learning. Standing Strong Through the Storm can be read by individuals, families, or by a small study group.

Christians in Pakistan's Swat Valley

2009-05-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Pressure is being put on Christians and other minority groups in the Swat Valley of Pakistan. The Taliban is trying to make these groups conform to their Islamic standards, which makes it harder for these people to live. Christians are already in a tight spot because much fighting that goes on between the Pakistan military and the Taliban.

Much prayer is needed for these dear Christians being caught between this crossfire. Please also get the word out about this so many people will pray.

To read a long article on this, follow this link.

VOM Website Updated

2009-05-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

Check out the new Voice of the Martyrs website! It was launched a couple of weeks ago and has some really neat features on it. Things like prayer updates and media have been added. This is one cool way to stay in-the-loop and make sure you're keeping up with all the news.

Love

2009-05-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

God will not judge us according to how much we endured, but how much we could love. The Christians who suffer for their faith in prisons could love. I am a witness that they could love both God and men. -Former underground church pastor who was imprisoned for his faith

"Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." (Matt. 5:43-44 KJV)

"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." (Jn. 13:34-35 KJV)

Pray for persecuted Christians that they would be empowered by the Holy Spirit to love their enemies.

Chinese House Church Leaders Arrested

2009-05-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Eighteen house church leaders and members were arrested on April 30. The Public Security Bureau (PSB) arrested the Christians while gathered for a communion service in a house in Xinye city, Henan province.

Once at the police station, the Christians were each forced to pay to pay a 1000 Yuan, which is about $100 US.

There are still sixteen believers being held. Ten out of that number are preachers. The names of the imprisoned pastors are Wang Donggui, Yang Chengqun, GuoDaying, Hao Xuecheng, Lun Zhidian, Lian Fengmei, Chen Mingao, Ren Zhiai, Zhai Laoxue and Zhai Jinai.

For more stories on the persecuted church, please visit persecution.com.

The Growing Number of Muslims in the World...

2009-05-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the world today. After watching this video I see why. There is no need to fear however, God is totally in control and able to help us in these times. Think of the opportunities and of the persecution. Pray for Muslims and pray for believers that will be having to face this tidal wave of Islam.

The Martyr's Song

2009-05-06T06:04:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm always looking for good books, fiction or non-fiction, and boy are there some good ones out there!

I'm not going to go into any details about The Martyr's Song because it's a shortish book and because I'd be afraid that I'd give a lot of details away. Just suffice it it to say, this is one good Christian novel! I got it from the library and within an hour, I had read it.

Thank you Ceira for telling me about this book!

A Tremendous Article!

2009-05-05T06:36:00.000-07:00

Withstanding Persecution
by Israel Wayne

Very few of us in America know anything experientially about persecution. I was listening to a call-in program for teenagers on Christian radio a few years back. The host asked teenagers to call in and tell their story if they had ever been persecuted for their Christian faith. As I recall the most hideous form of persecution they could muster was a young man who said, “Well, like, you know, some of the other kids in school, like, kinda, uhh, don’t hang around you and stuff if they think you are a Christian.”

My mind immediately recalled stories I’ve read in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, Tortured for Christ, or Martyr’s Mirror. While I’m sure it isn’t fun to be ignored by secular peers, I’d hardly call that “persecution.” With that low of a spiritual pain tolerance, it makes me wonder how we would fair if we ever faced real opposition and oppression.

John 15:20 (KJV)

“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also.”

One of the most basic principles of discipleship is that we are servants, following after our master. The path He chose was that of the cross. We must not think that we will be able to avoid the cross of affliction or persecution in our own lives.

PERSECUTION FROM RELIGIOUS PEOPLE

Matthew 10:16-20 (NASB)

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; therefore be shrewd as serpents, and innocent as doves. But beware of men; for they will deliver you up to the courts, and scourge you in their synagogues; and you shall even be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, do not become anxious about how or what you will speak; for it shall be given you in that hour what you are to speak. For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.”

The courts were secular, non-religious institutions, but the synagogues were religious institutions. This gives us a clear understanding that the enemies of the true disciples of Jesus are sometimes those who claim to be religious. In fact, throughout church history, some of the fiercest persecutors of God’s faithful disciples were religious people. The Israelites (God’s chosen covenant people) rebelled from God and killed his prophets (Luke 11:47). The Pharisees and Sadducees (the most devout religious people within the Jewish community) condemned Christ and His disciples to death. The Roman Catholic church persecuted and killed the Reformers. Some of the followers of Luther and Calvin, and Ulrich Zwingli in Zurich himself, arrested, persecuted and even killed Anabaptists for their beliefs on baptism and because many Anabaptists refused to fight the Turks.

The Pilgrims came to America to escape the religious persecution imposed on them by the Church of England. In Germany during the 1940s (World War II), many Catholic, and apostate Lutheran churches reported and turned in to the Gestapo the unregistered “confessing” churches who were faithful the gospel. These apostatized churches became propaganda platforms for Hitler and preached the Nazi sermons they were given by the Fuhrer.

In all of these cases God was looking for men and women to be faithful. Richard Wurmbrand was a Romanian pastor who loved God’s word and was faithful to the gospel. When the Soviets took over his country in the 1940s after WWII, Richard and three thousand other ministers were called to a special banquet. They were then told that they must stand and proclaim over national radio how wonderful Joseph Stalin and the soviet party was. (Joseph Stalin reportedly murdered as many as 30 million of his own people! He was a butcher who made his rival Adolph Hitler look tame by comparison.) One by one the pastors stood and denied their faith in Christ by accepting and condoning the actions of such a wicked man. Sabina, Richard’s wife said to him, “You must stand and wipe away this disgrace from the name of Christ!” Richard assured her that if he did not go along he would surely be arrested and perhaps killed. She replied, “I would rather have a dead husband than a husband who is a coward!”

Richard stood and proclaimed his faith and allegiance to Christ alone and began to preach the gospel. The soviets immediately shut off the radio broadcast, but not before millions of listeners heard one more time the truth of God’s word.

Both he and his wife were imprisoned. For the next ten years they didn’t see each other. They were both physically tortured in an attempt to make them deny their faith. They were each told that their spouse was dead. Eventually they were released, immigrated to Oklahoma and started an international ministry called, “Voice of the Martyrs,” educating people about those across the world who are tortured and suffering for their faith. Even faced with the enormous peer pressure of three thousand of their fellow ministers denying the gospel, they stood alone and honored Christ. They were faithful to use the platform they were given to declare God’s truth. From Stephen in the book of acts, to Polycarp, to the Anabaptists whose blood were shed for their faith, history is full of those who stand firm for the gospel, and religious people who think they are doing God a favor by killing and/or persecuting those who follow Christ wholeheartedly.

These are sordid tales of religious history that we would all like to pretend never happened. However, the facts are that God’s people have often had enemies from within and without religious circles.

Matthew 10:21-22 (NASB)

“And brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents, and cause them to be put to death. And you will be hated by all on account of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved.”

It is much easier to withstand persecution from someone with whom you have no fellowship. If you are persecuted by a communist or a terrorist or something of that sort, you have a clear sense of their motivation for coming against you. They have a belief system that is contrary to the gospel and they hate the cause of Christ. They may also have a cultivated hatred toward you because of national or ethnic tensions. What makes little or no sense, however, is when the opposition comes from someone you know and love. It is nearly impossible for us to comprehend that someone from our own family, someone with whom we have shared many precious hours of sweet fellowship may turn against us and even seek our death. This is strange indeed, but Jesus said that it would happen.

STANDING ALONE

There are times when we simply may have to stand alone. Being “hated by all” does not seem like something any of us could withstand, but Jesus promised salvation to those who endure without giving up.

Matthew 10:23 (NASB)

“But whenever they persecute you in this city, flee to the next; for truly I say to you, you shall not finish going through the cities of Israel, until the Son of Man comes.”

While our Lord never authorizes retaliation, vengeance, or returning evil for evil, he does allow for us to remove ourselves from a situation where we are experiencing unprovoked aggression. Jesus’ own parents sought safety for their family when King Herod sought the life of their son. Fleeing to another city or community is something the Lord allows, and even recommends for those who are being persecuted.

Matthew 10:24-31 (NASB)

“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master. It is enough for the disciple that he become as his teacher, and the slave as his master. If they have called the head of the house Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household! Therefore do not fear them, for there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. "What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops. "And do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. ‘But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore do not fear; you are of more value than many sparrows.’”

FEAR IS A SIN

Jesus says, “Do not fear them.” That sounds easy enough, but it is much harder to practice than we might think. The fear of man is so natural to our flesh.

Proverbs 29:25 (NASB)

“The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted.”

Fearing man, however, is always a trap. It never brings the freedom we seek, only more bondage. We must never seek our security in the acceptance of others, but in Christ alone. Fear is a sin. We are commanded to fear God alone.

Psalm 56:11 (NASB)

“In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?”

Fear is a refusal to trust God. It is rebellion and disobedience covered in a garment of self-protection and self-interest. God is our defender. To fear is to imply that God is not: All-knowing, all-loving or all-powerful. If God knows all things, desires the best for us (Romans 8:28), and has total control over all things, then even if we find ourselves in the position of righteous Job in the Old Testament, we know that God has allowed testings for His glory and our good.

James 1:2-4 (NASB)

“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

In our flesh, it is impossible to consider our trials to be “joyful.” It is only through the work of the Holy Spirit that we can walk as Jesus did, who for the joy that was before Him, endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2).

If we desire to stand when we are facing death for our faith, we must learn to stand in the “little” tests of desiring the approval of men. While I was a bit hard on the young man who called into the radio program, it is through enduring those small challenges that we will build the spiritual muscle and fortitude to stand firm in the face of the really big challenges. The Lord is faithful to test us in small things before entrusting us to truly big challenges.

Used with permission. Special thanks to Mr. Israel Wayne for allowing me to post this article!

The Persecuted Are Blessed

2009-05-04T07:03:00.000-07:00

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matt. 5:10-12 ESV)

It doesn't seem to make sense, at least to the Western mind, that persecution is a blessing. I know for myself, until recently, I thought of persecution as a bad thing.

Now don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that persecution and martyrdom is easy or fun. It's not, just listen to the stories of persecuted believers. Having scalding hot oil splashed on your skin or being dangled upside down for hours is not anyones' idea of fun. However, it is a privilege to share in the sufferings of Christ.

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. (1 Pe. 4:12-16 ESV)

We are told not to be surprised by suffering that comes upon us. Instead we are to rejoice that we share in the sufferings of Jesus. This can only come about by the enabling help of the Holy Spirit. Yielding to God in the midst of persecution brings glory to Him!

The Bible doesn't promise us the easy life as so many preachers on TV tells us. In fact, it tells us that all those who live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Tim. 3:12). We can know that as God allows trials into our life, it's for our good (2 Cor. 4:17) and His glory.

ChinaAid Delivers Petitions to Free Gao

2009-05-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

Country Profile: Laos

2009-05-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

Laos is a Socialist republic, who's constitution guarantees religious freedom. However, the government does not always enforce this and even participates in the persecution of Christians.

The government of Laos requires approval for proselytizing, printing religious texts, and own and building places of worship. The Laotian government forbids proselytizing done by foreigners and those who are caught witnessing, are either arrested or deported.

Laotian Christians have been arrested, forced at gunpoint to renounce their
faith and even killed. On July 21, 2008, residents of Katin village in Saravan
province killed a Christian man by pouring rice wine down his throat.

(Quote taken from here)

For recent news on Christians in Laos, click on this link.

Fatal Attacks in Iraq

2009-04-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

On April 26, in the city of Kirkuk, Iraq, three Christians were killed and two others were wounded. A mother and her daughter-in-law had their throats slit. A gunman also attacked another family, shooting the father and three sons. One boy died instantly and the others were hurt.

This is just another episode in a long line of attacks against churches, Christian businesses, and believers in Iraq. Many people are pressured in many different ways to stop witnessing and convert back to Islam.

Prayer is needed for the families that lost loved ones in these attacks and for healing for those who were injured.

The Martyr's Way

2009-04-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

They stood before the king
One thing only did he ask
"Bow the knee, and go free"

Breathing a silent prayer to God
In unison the group resolves
Never to bow or deny
The Christ who died for them

Parents loose sight of children
Husbands torn from their wives
Why?
All done for their love for One

After the fire dies down
And their souls have been set free
There is one who stands gazing at the embers
As he turns, resolve written on his face

God hears a prayer
Another has entered the "Martyr's Way"
Willing to face anything, even death
Just like the One who forged this Way

Written by Jordan Clark
4-27-09