As they watched the Taliban quickly retake control of their homeland last year, Afghan Christians faced an existential question: Should I stay or leave the country? They knew their lives could depend on making the right decision.
Many who were not widely known as Christians made the courageous decision to stay in Afghanistan as witnesses for Christ. Of those who left the country, including some who had been more public about their Christian faith, many took refuge in nearby nations that also are predominantly Muslim. Although they know serving Christ is a dangerous endeavor in these countries, they continue to proclaim His gospel among their new neighbors.
Today, Afghan Christians both inside the country and in neighboring Muslim-majority nations follow Christ as “sheep among wolves.” Using discernment, wisdom and great care, they quietly share the gospel with their neighbors and maintain a burning and shining witness amid the darkness.
For Christians inside Afghanistan, the Taliban takeover has presented a unique opportunity to bear witness to Christ in a dire situation. “Recently, some Afghan families heard the gospel and have become followers of Christ … through local believers,” said John Weaver, a longtime frontline worker in Afghanistan. “Because of the oppressiveness and because of the desperation, … [Afghan Christians] have had multiple opportunities to share, to be salt and light, to serve, to give food, to reach out in practical, tangible ways but then slowly talk about the good news and how they have discovered eternal life through Jesus Christ.”
John said there is also a unique opportunity for God’s kingdom to advance through the Afghan refugees now scattered around the world. “Let’s pray for organizations that are reaching Afghans in different diaspora countries, because it very well could be that … there are thousands of them that become followers of Christ,” he said. “[They could become] witnesses where they are scattered … [and also] have an influence back into their own home country. Just praying for … breakthroughs, praying for God’s light to shine among the Afghan people that He loves so much.”
Hear John tell more about what life is like for Afghans under Taliban control on VOM Radio. Listen as he shares insights gleaned from decades of ministry work in Afghanistan and suggests how we can pray for Christians inside the country as well as those now living in other countries. {eoa}
The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) is a nonprofit, interdenominational missions organization that serves persecuted Christians around the world. Founded in 1967 by Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, VOM is dedicated to inspiring believers to deepen their commitment to Christ and to fulfill His Great Commission — no matter the cost.
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