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, with 310 million in the top 50 countries facing 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 we ourselves 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 Afghanistan
Lord Jesus, we marvel at the brave faith of our family in Afghanistan, but our hearts also ache at their suffering. Continue to fill Your children with the bright light of Christ, refreshing their hope and empowering their witness. Watch over Your people, keep them from harm, and provide avenues for them to flourish. We pray against further deportations, and that You would soften the hearts of the Taliban, and those in neighbouring countries, towards women and vulnerable minorities. Amen.
Who Is Most Vulnerable to Persecution?
Generally, control and supervision in smaller, rural communities is stricter than in most cities. However, even in cities such as the capital, Kabul, there is a very high level of control and increasing CCTV surveillance, so Christians face difficulties throughout the country.
How Can You Pray for Afghanistan?
- Pray for Christians in Afghanistan who still endure after four-and-a-half years of Taliban rule. Ask God to protect His people and give them a spirit of hope and peace.
- Several neighbouring nations have deported Afghan refugees. Pray for any Afghan Christian refugees who may be among this group; pray they will be protected from harm and be comforted.
- Pray that God will change the hearts of the Taliban leaders. Ask God to soften their stance toward Christians and other religious minorities, and bring them the hope and joy of Christ.