In every corner of the world, millions of believers follow Jesus at great cost. The persecuted church is made up of Christians who face pressure, discrimination, and violence because of their faith—yet they remain steadfast in hope. Open Doors’ World Watch List highlights the 50 countries where persecution is most severe, revealing places where the gospel is suppressed, and many live in deep spiritual bondage, separated from the hope of Christ.
More than 380 million Christians experience significant persecution, and within the top 50 countries alone, 310 million face very high or extreme levels of opposition. This year, we commit to praying for the twelve nations where persecution is most intense—not only for believers who suffer, but also for those who persecute them. Scripture calls us to “remember those in prison as though you yourselves were suffering” (Hebrews 13:3), and Jesus calls us to pray for our enemies, trusting that the same gospel resisted in these places is powerful enough to save.
As we pray, we ask God to strengthen His people, soften hardened hearts, and bring freedom to those bound by fear and deception. Stand with the persecuted church through prayer, awareness, and faithful hope, as we ask God to sustain His church and advance the gospel—even in the hardest and darkest places.
A Prayer for Saudi Arabia
Heavenly Father, give strength to our brothers and sisters who follow You while living in fear in Saudi Arabia. We pray that, instead of facing rejection or harm from their families, their families would become soft-hearted and open to meeting You. Protect those who bravely share the gospel online and through media, and may Your message reach many Saudis who are searching for truth. Protect the most vulnerable—especially Christian women—and bring justice and peace. Amen.
Who Is Most Vulnerable to Persecution?
Christian believers who have left Islam face the greatest risk of persecution, both from authorities and from those around them. This danger is often heightened in rural areas, where families and communities exert stronger control over individuals’ lives. One exception is Westerners living in immigrant compounds, who typically experience slightly more freedom.
How Can You Pray for Saudi Arabia?
- That believers would find safe places to worship and grow in their knowledge of the Lord
- For immigrant Christians who meet secretly, asking God for protection and wisdom
- That God would bless and sustain those sharing the gospel in Saudi Arabia