Persevering Christians and Ways to Help
Persevere
Jesus warned that His followers would be persecuted. He also promised that “the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.”
Which Christians are at greatest risk of persecution? Here are examples – and critical ways we help as they persevere:
Extremely Dangerous Countries
Afghanistan
Christian converts in Afghanistan went from hiding their faith to being hunted. Even those who leave the country are at risk from other Afghan refugees.
Through secure networks, CFI is assisting Christians in and outside of Afghanistan.
North Korea
North Koreans suffer unspeakable persecution under a cruel regime where the Bible is banned, and Christianity is illegal. Some dare to escape through China. If they are found, China forcibly returns them. If they are Christian, they face harsher punishments. North Koreans take great risks and endure horrific torment to know Christ.
CFI provides shelters and Bibles for escapees, and supports Gospel radio broadcasts into North Korea.
Nigeria
More Christians are brutally killed in Nigeria than all other countries combined. Islamists viciously attack Christian villages, massacring people and destroying property.
CFI provides survivors with emergency aid, child sponsorships for education, recovery and skill training for young adults and widows to build a future.
The Cost for Those Who Believe
Christian Converts
When Christians are a minority in militant Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu countries, converts to Christ face extreme pressure to deny Christ. They are harassed, beaten, threatened with death, and their land and property stolen.
Yet many not only persevere, they also courageously tell others about Jesus.
Christians in Hostile Societies
Christians in societies that are hostile to Christianity face harsh discrimination and are treated as second-class. Overtly or subtly, they are denied jobs, education, and aid during crises. They are falsely accused of crimes out of hatred or vengeance. Officials abuse their authority to allow, or perpetrate, discrimination.
Widows and Orphans
Christian widows and orphans who already face persecution are extremely vulnerable and ill-equipped to provide for themselves when they lose the breadwinner of their family
Ways that CFI Helps Persecuted Christians
Urgent Aid in Crises:
- Food and Bibles
- Shelters
- Medical Aid for injuries
- Legal Aid
- Security cameras
Equip for their Future:
- Sponsorships to directly connect with a persecuted Christian.
- Livelihood training
- Schooling and supplies
- Bible training and discipleship
Victory Bible Academy
CFI’s school for persecuted Christians from Burma (aka Myanmar) trains students how to live for Christ and serve others.
Students put into practice their Bible training and survival skills on outreaches to jungle villages, widows and orphans, and refugees who fled from the war in Burma.
Child Protection
As a persecuted minority, Christian children are especially vulnerable. They are at great risk – with little or no protection from society or officials – of being trafficked, sexually abused, and falling into drugs from despair.
CFI partners with local teams to train children to resist trafficking, abuse, and drugs with techniques based on stories and principles from the Bible.
“I stand before God and ask him to shower his mercy on you, your family and other people who have played a role in supporting us and all the believers.” – Afghan believer
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:2