I SHARE YOUR FAITHBUT NOT YOURFREEDOM...In many countries faith in Jesus can

cost you your family, your freedom

and even your life.

WHERE FAITH COSTS THE MOSTIn 2010, millions of Christians across the world face persecution because of their faith in Christ.

Some may face harassment, imprisonment or discrimination; others may experience violence or death – simply because they follow Jesus.

THE WORLD WATCH LISTOpen Doors’ World Watch List highlights the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian. Will you join us in praying for believers living in these countries where faith costs the most? 

THE TOP TENThe top ten countries on the 2010 World Watch List are:

 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Afghanistan

Yemen

Mauritania

Laos

Uzbekistan

North Korea

Iran

Saudi Arabia

Somalia

Maldives

THE TOP TEN

In North Korea and Laos, Communism is restricting the growth of the church. 

In the other eight countries, Islamic extremism is the prime source of persecution.

IRAN

The 2009 presidential election triggered a government clampdown on the church.

Christians reported harassment and discrimination because of their faith.

But amazingly, the church is still growing. There are now around 350,000 believers from a Muslim background.

Islamic republic0.35% Christian

PRAY FOR MUSLIM-BACKGROUND BELIEVERSMany Muslim-background believers (MBBs) face pressure from the government and society to return to Islam. The growth in the number of believers from a Muslim background has led to some churches being closed.

PLEASE PRAY• for perseverance for MBBs facing

pressure to deny their faith in Jesus

• for Christian fellowship for new believers who have been ostracised from their families and communities

• that Christian radio and satellite TV programmes would bring hope and encouragement to isolated believers

PRAY FOR THE PRISONERS

At least 85 Christians were arrested during 2009; many reported mistreatment in prison.  Most were later released, but remain under surveillance with court cases pending.

PLEASE PRAY• that imprisoned believers would

have strength to stand firm in Christ

• that their witness would have a powerful impact on others in prison

• that those imprisoned unjustly would be released

PRAY FOR THE CHURCHLeaders of official churches face increasing pressure from the authorities. Some have been forced to sign statements saying they won't let Muslims attend their church services.   Security police regularly raid unregistered house churches and arrest church members.

PLEASE PRAY• for church leaders who are targeted

by the authorities because of their evangelistic activities

• for more trained leaders, discipleship courses and training materials in Farsi for the growing house churches

• for protection for those distributing Bibles and resources in the Farsi language

PRAY FOR CHANGE IN IRANThe 2009 presidential elections revealed a high level of discontent inside the country.  Poverty and unemployment are increasing and many are struggling with feelings of hopelessness.  Many are dissatisfied with Islam and are looking for a more modern, Western lifestyle.

PLEASE PRAY• that those in despair would hear

about the hope that is found in Jesus

• for justice and freedom to emerge from the turmoil of the 2009 elections

• for political leaders who will work for peace and righteousness in all levels of government

Sovereign Lord, King of Kings, We praise you that your Spirit is at work amongst the people of Iran.  Thank you that your church is growing and that many people are finding Christ. We pray that many more would meet Jesus, in dreams and visions, and through the witness of your people.   

A PRAYER FOR PERSECUTED BELIEVERS IN IRAN

A PRAYER FOR PERSECUTED BELIEVERS IN IRANThank you that there is a growing hunger for your word. Bless those seeking to meet this need by providing Bibles, discipleship training, and Christian satellite TV and radio programmes. Thank you that your church is standing firm despite opposition. Give strength to those facing pressure to return to Islam. Sustain those who have been imprisoned for choosing to follow you.  Gracious Lord, strengthen your church to take the gospel to those still in darkness – for the extension of your kingdom and the praise of your glory. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.