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GlobalPrayerGuide

Iran
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Overview:

The Islamic Revolution of 1979, led by Ayatollah Khomeini, created the world’s only Shiite Islamic theocracy and profoundly changed every aspect of life in Iran. While Iran has elected presidents, the country is ultimately led by Muslim clerics. Today, many of those who committed their lives to Islam and Islamic rule are filled with despair. This disillusionment has opened new doors for the gospel, which is sweeping across the nation via Christian media and bold evangelists in Iran’s growing house church movements. However, the government continues its attempts to thwart this move of God. Christian leaders and pastors are often arrested, tortured and imprisoned, and their families are harassed. Some, left with no other options, choose to flee the country.

Major Religion:

More than 97 percent of Iranians are identified by the government as Muslims, but a significant segment of the population has abandoned Islam, and many have come to faith in Christ.

Persecutor:

Christians are persecuted by government authorities, who have networks of informants in each city. Family, friends and community members also persecute Christians, especially when news of a conversion becomes public.

What It Means To Follow Christ In Iran

The Iranian government is among the most oppressive regimes in the world. It is illegal to leave Islam, and Christians face the constant threat of imprisonment and being falsely charged with “acting against national security” for owning Bibles or even talking about Christ. Christians are routinely fired from their jobs, and it is difficult for a known believer to find a job or rent a home. Many Christians gather in covert fellowships and receive teaching through Christian media smuggled into the country and through broadcast media. A significant number of Christians are currently imprisoned.

Access To Bibles

It is illegal to own, print, import or distribute Bibles. Since they are so difficult to obtain, Bibles are treasured by Iranian believers. Few have their own copy of God’s Word. Give Bibles

VOM Work

VOM provides encouragement, support and training for former prisoners as they rebuild their lives. We also provide discipleship and leadership training for current and future Christian leaders. VOM is actively involved in smuggling God’s Word to believers inside Iran. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry

Prayer Requests:

  • Khodayar was transformed by the gift of a Bible. Pray that more Bibles will be smuggled to those hungry for the truth.
  • Pray that many Iranians will come to faith in Christ through Christian media, including broadcasting.
  • Many Christians, like Pastor Anooshavan, are in prison or under house arrest. Pray for their release and ministry.
  • Disillusioned with Islamic rule, some have become more open to the gospel. Pray that many will come to know Christ.
  • Praise God for faithful Iranian Christians, who worship in secret while facing harassment and arrest.
  • Use Hebrews 12:1–2 to pray for the encouragement of persecuted Iranian Christians.