Over recent days, conflict has spread across the Middle East. U.S. and Israeli forces have struck Iranian targets and Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks directed at Israel and other nations in the region. Civilians and service members on all sides have suffered. (Read more here.)
For believers this moment raises deep spiritual questions: How should we understand violence and war in light of Christ’s reign? How should we pray? What hope can the church offer to the nations?
From Scripture we learn that God reigns over the tumult of the nations (Psalm 46). He is sovereign even when the world seems to spiral. Psalm 2 reminds us that though nations rage and kingdoms totter, it is the Lord who has installed his king, the Lord Jesus Christ. Revelation affirms that the kingdoms of this earth become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ. Our hope is anchored in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Christians in Iran are living under intense pressure. Convert believers risk arrest and imprisonment. House churches meet in private, hidden from watching authorities, yet the gospel continues to spread by God’s grace (source). In Israel and neighboring nations, believers are navigating fear, uncertainty, and rising tensions while seeking to bear witness to Christ.
A Reminder of Gospel Power
Even in the shadow of war, Christ continues to draw people to himself.
Recently, a global worker reported that a young Iranian woman from a Muslim background was baptized after publicly professing faith in Jesus Christ. Those serving her shared this testimony:
“Today, Sunday, March 1, by God’s grace and by the power of the Holy Spirit, we had the privilege of baptizing a young woman from a Muslim family in Iran, as she publicly declared Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour.”
Her story stretches back to childhood. “When she was 10 years old in Iran, she had a dream in which Jesus gave her an apple and said, ‘I am Jesus Christ, your Lord and Saviour.’ That dream remained deeply in her heart.”
Years later, that memory resurfaced. “Through Bible studies, answering her questions and encouraging her, over time, the Spirit of God drew her to Himself.” On the day of her baptism, “she stood before the congregation and boldly declared that she has accepted Christ as her Lord and Saviour.”
This is what the reign of Christ looks like in real time. While governments act and armies move, the Holy Spirit opens blind eyes. While nations posture, sinners repent. The kingdom advances quietly but powerfully.
Prayer Points for the Church
- Pray for peace and protection for all civilians caught in conflict.
- Pray for stability in nations affected and for wisdom for leaders to choose peace.
- Pray for justice grounded in truth and mercy, not vengeance.
- Pray for godly civil magistrates in each country who fear the Lord and lead with righteousness.
- Pray for spiritual awakening and conversions among Muslims, Jews, and all peoples affected by war.
- Pray for Christ’s glory to be made known globally as his kingdom advances.
- Pray for believers sheltering together during the security situation—for safety, unity, and opportunities to share the gospel with neighbors.
- Pray for believers serving in the military and in leadership roles, that they would act with integrity and bear a clear testimony
When crises erupt throughout the Middle East, ABWE seeks to be present with gospel-centered hope, compassion, and practical help. Gifts to the Middle East Compassion Fund allow ABWE to respond quickly when needs arise, including supporting believers sheltering together and providing food and practical care during instability—meeting physical and spiritual needs in the name of Christ.
You can give to the Middle East Compassion Fund here.
As you pray, consider engaging with these resources:
- Podcast: What’s Happening in Iran? Protests, Crisis, and the Church explores Iran’s spiritual landscape and the church’s witness amid upheaval.
- Podcast: Is Israel Important for Missions? offers insight into evangelism among Jewish communities.
- Podcast: How Iran’s Underground Church Is Miraculously Growing testifies to faithful believers pressing on in Christ.
- Article: Ramadan: 4 Opportunities to Love Your Muslim Neighbor reflects on gospel witness during this season of significance for Muslims.
In times like these, the church must not lose heart. Christ is sovereign. He commands his church to pray without ceasing, to love without partiality, and to proclaim the gospel without fear.
