A Barnabas Aid contact has reported that the Gospel is continuing to spread in Afghanistan, despite fierce persecution.
“So far this year more than 50 people have been baptised in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” said Pastor “Ali”, a church leader working in great secrecy.
“Remarkably, every one of them is under 30 years old,” he added, “and more than 70% are in their early 20s or younger.
Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan [Image credit: Qasim Mirzaie/Pexels]
“This rising generation is desperate for truth, for hope, for a God who is living and real.”
Followers of Jesus are at constant risk in Afghanistan, both from the Taliban authorities and from extremists within the Muslim-majority population.
Sharia (Islamic law) is strictly enforced by the Taliban who, on their return to power in 2021, warned Christians that they had three choices: leave, reconvert to Islam or face death. The overwhelming majority of believers were first- or second-generation converts from Islam, viewed under sharia as apostates who should be executed.
“We also continue to build and strengthen house churches”, continued Ali.
“Despite the risks, small groups of believers are gathering regularly for prayer, worship and Bible study. These fellowships are lifelines of hope, where men and women are encouraged in their faith, equipped in the Word, and reminded that they are not alone.
“Each new gathering is a testimony that Christ’s Church is alive and growing, even in the hardest soil.”
How you can pray
Praise the Lord that believers are growing in their faith and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, even as they live in one of the most dangerous countries in the world. Give thanks that the Gospel is being shared and that people are being saved. Pray that the Lord will preserve His people from their enemies.
