In the face of adversity, the church has always shown remarkable resilience, thriving under persecution in various parts of the world. Despite threats and opposition, the body of Christ continues to grow, testifying to the enduring power of the Gospel.
The Perseverance of the Early Disciples
The early disciples of Jesus provide a profound example of resilience in the face of persecution. From the moment they began to spread the Gospel, they faced intense opposition. Peter and John were imprisoned, Stephen was martyred, and Paul faced numerous imprisonments, beatings, and eventually execution. Yet, despite these trials, the Gospel spread like wildfire. Their unwavering faith and dedication to Jesus’ command to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19) ensured that the message of Christ reached the ends of the earth.
The Flourishing Church in Iran
Iran, a nation known for its strict Islamic regime, is witnessing an extraordinary spiritual revival. The underground church, predominantly composed of ex-Muslims, is growing at an unprecedented rate. Despite severe persecution, including imprisonment, torture, and even death, believers in Iran remain steadfast. The church’s growth is fuelled by dreams and visions of Jesus, personal encounters, and the courage of those willing to share their faith despite the risks.
A notable example of this vibrant faith comes from congregation leaders of Shaar HaEmek, Ilana and Israel Naftali. Based in Netanya, Israel, Shaar HaEmek is one of many congregations we support. Ilana and Israel’s work of reaching out to the Iranian people and church planting has been instrumental in nurturing the underground church in Iran. Recently, they led a seminar in Afyon, Turkey, where they trained and encouraged fellow believers, further strengthening the bonds within the Christian community. Their work is a testament to the thriving faith of the Iranian church, despite the oppressive environment.
The Growing Messianic Body in Israel
In Israel, the Messianic Jewish movement faces significant challenges from both Orthodox Jews and Muslims. Despite threats, harassment, and social ostracism, the Messianic body is expanding. There are over 200 congregations in Israel alone and at least 30,000 Messianic Jewish believers in Israel, with many more who believe in secret, according to new research. These believers, who recognise Jesus as the Messiah, continue to grow in number and fervour, sharing the Gospel with their fellow Israelis.
A Biblical Perspective: Luke 21:12-13
Jesus foretold the persecution of His followers in Luke 21:12-13: “But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. And so you will bear testimony to me.” These words resonate deeply with the contemporary church. Persecution is not a sign of defeat but an opportunity to testify to the power of Christ. It is through these trials that the authenticity of our faith shines the brightest.
The Challenge in the United Kingdom
While the church in Iran and Israel grows under persecution, the United Kingdom faces a different challenge. Church attendance in the Church of England has been declining yearly. This trend underscores the need for a renewed commitment to evangelism and discipleship. The mission field is not just overseas but also on our doorstep, in our communities, and on social media platforms where many people seek answers and meaning.
The Call to Action
The Gospel’s transformative power compels us to continue sharing it, regardless of the obstacles. We must speak out for truth wherever we can—on social media, in the streets, and in our daily interactions. The decline in church attendance in places like the UK should not discourage us but rather ignite a passion for revival. This is a massive opportunity to share the good news of Christ and the importance of Israel.
In conclusion, the church’s growth under persecution in Iran and Israel serves as a powerful reminder of the Gospel’s resilience. The example set by the early disciples further emphasises that despite persecution, the Gospel can and will spread. As we face our own challenges, let us take heart in the promise of Luke 21:12-13 and continue to bear testimony to Christ. Whether in the face of physical persecution or societal indifference, the mission remains the same: to share the hope of the Gospel with a world in desperate need of it.
“But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.”
