Pray for Iran

Known as Persia until 1935, today’s Islamic Republic of Iran is predominantly Muslim (99%), mostly Shi’ite. It is often perceived as Arabic with neighboring Arabic countries, but Iran is Persian. Descendants of Noah’s son Shem first settled in the area and were followed by the Medes and Persians, who established a world empire. The Bible records the names of some of its most famous:  Cyrus the Great, Darius, and Xerxes. Over the centuries, the Persian language (Farsi) and culture have prevailed even with many conquerors crossing through this land.  Persians comprise over sixty percent of the 90 million people in Iran. With northern coastlines on the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman in the south, Iran’s large land mass is politically strategic as it shares borders with Iraq, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.

Geographically, in the Middle East and Central Asia, Iran is a recognized regional power. The 1979 Islamic Revolution overthrew the twenty-five-hundred-year-old monarchy and converted Iran into a Shi’ite Muslim, cleric-ruled country.  Currently, Iran’s over dependence on the country’s oil and natural gas exports, economic reforms that fell short of their targets, triple-digit inflation, and a 30% poverty rate, have crippled the nation. Furthermore, Iran’s questionable nuclear program, along with its attitude toward Israel, has stirred up worldwide political concerns and economic sanctions.

In Iran, all ethnic Persians and those from Muslim backgrounds (even if not practicing) are considered Muslims.  Anyone who converts to Christianity is declared an apostate and could face death. The Iranian constitution recognizes the historic minority religions of Zoroastrianism, Judaism, and Christianity, but it does not allow churches to preach or distribute materials in Farsi, and proselytizing is forbidden.  Yet, the number of Muslim background believers coming to Christ in Iran continues to grow greatly regardless. Believers and non-believers are having Holy Spirit-inspired dreams and visions. Many are curious about the Bible, but Bibles and Christian printed materials in Farsi are illegal. Smuggled Farsi Bibles and materials are quickly put to use.  The Internet and broadcasts by radio and satellite TV are providing encouragement, resources, and training for believers as more come to Christ and more underground house churches are established.