Get a FREE copy of VOM’s Global Prayer Guide with any gift

Give Now
Bible Distribution in Vietnam.
An Indian woman prays.
Local pastor in Laos.
Displaced girl from Mexico.
Persecuted children from Uganda.

GlobalPrayerGuide

Brunei
Restricted
Back to List

Overview:

Brunei is a Muslim-majority nation under the rule of a dynastic sultan and Islamic law. There are fewer than 20 registered churches in Brunei and few opportunities for Bruneians to hear the gospel. While oil wealth has ensured that few people lack in material needs, spiritual needs are great. Despite the risks, a few bold evangelists and missionaries continue to bring the light of the gospel to this dark land.

Major Religion:

Almost 80 percent of Bruneians are Sunni Muslims, and nearly all of the 9 percent who are Christians are ethnically Chinese.

Persecutor:

The government is the main persecutor of Christians.

What It Means To Follow Christ In Brunei

While some historic churches exist in Brunei, no new church buildings are allowed. Churches are often afraid to reach out to Muslims because they are monitored closely by the religious police. Even inviting a Muslim to a Christmas celebration would be problematic. The penalty for evangelizing Muslims is a $15,000 fine, up to five years in prison or both. Nevertheless, several Bruneians have been baptized.

Access To Bibles

Bibles in Malay, the country’s official language, are illegal and are confiscated if discovered. No bookstores in Brunei sell Bibles. Give Bibles

VOM Work

VOM supports the work of evangelists throughout the country. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry

Prayer Requests:

  • Pray that Bruneian Christians will seize opportunities to share the gospel in their daily relationships.
  • Islamic education is required for children. Pray that Christian youth will receive discipleship at home and church.
  • Pray for bold evangelists who continue to share the gospel in Brunei.
  • Praise God for Bruneians who have come to faith in Christ despite harsh restrictions.
  • Bibles in Malay, Brunei's official language, are illegal. Pray that Bruneians will have access to God's Word.
  • Pray for strengthening of the Bruneian church, using Ephesians 3:16–19 as a guide.