Pray for the Persecuted Church

The persecuted church or the underground church needs our prayers.

I had a recent disagreement with someone who tried to say the "Churches in Houston" were being persecuted because a mayor asked for their sermons. This is a far cry from what is happening in the church across the world. The persecuted church needs our prayers.

According to Release International (Source The Lookout Nov. 2, 2014 pg. 4 "Prosecuted and Persecuted" Dr. Barry Thornton)

"More Christians have been martyred in the 20th Century than in all previous centuries combined.

About 170 000 Christians are martyred for their faith each year. That's 400 people dying for their faith each day!

Currently more than 100 Million Christians are being persecuted worldwide.

Christians are being persecuted in 131 of the world's 193 countries (Pew Forum Study)"

According to VOM
(Voice of the Martyrs) there are 53 countries in the world and 14 restricted places that the gospel cannot be preached. (I have a banner that cites the places that I display now and then for the church to pray for their brothers and sisters in Christ)

What does this have to do with me?

1. Pray for the church.

2. Don't take your freedom in Christ or freedom of religion for granted.

3. To say someone asking for sermons or certain restrictions are being persecuted does a disservice. Harassed or bullied ...yes. Honor and pray for those taking a stand.

4. Educate yourself what is happening with Missions Around the World. Pray for those missionaries serving in tough areas.

5. Give. Give of your time, talents, treasure to help the Underground Church.

Who is with me?