Libya
Libya has been traditionally closed to all evangelism. Covert evangelistic efforts have been hampered by the country’s elaborate secret police network. Churches are authorized for expatriate Christian congregations only and are limited to one per denomination per city. All suspected Christians are closely watched. Nevertheless, there is a tremendous thirst for the Gospel.
Despite the lack of significant local Christian leadership, there is a persistent stream of foreign missionaries to the region. If caught, these missionaries face harsh consequences. One, recently observed sharing the Gospel with a Muslim, was severely beaten and imprisoned for 45 days, then deported from the country.
Prayers for persecuted Christians in Libya
Sharia in Libya
UPDATE: The head of the National Transition Council in LIBYA says he envisions a state “where sharia is the main source for legislation.”
Pray that Christians will be bold in their faith, despite the challenges they face. “As you come to Him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house…”
Libya’s Future Uncertain
Some fear that Islamists will take advantage of the uprising in LIBYA to seize control and impose Sharia law.
Pray that believers in Libya, who have faced the dangers of imprisonment and deportation in the past, will have courage to live out their faith no matter what the future holds. “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.”
Christians Meeting in Secret
Many expatriate Christians have fled LIBYA, but some that remain are forced to meet in secret, cancel church activities, or stay indoors. Some report being harassed by the security forces of the country’s dictator. He has declared the conflict in Libya to be a religious war, called for Islamic armies to take part, and has denounced Christians as the enemy.
Ask God to preserve the dwindling churches in the region. “Nevertheless, I am continu- ally with You; You hold my right hand.”
Greater freedom in Libya?
Libya has long been closed to the Gospel. But now there are signs that greater freedom may be coming. Authorities allowed a church seized during the revolution to be rededicated; traditional Christian communities are operating openly.
Pray that all Libyans will know the true freedom found in Jesus Christ. "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another."
Muslim Steals Christian Business
A Christian in LIBYA was arrested for "proselytizing in Libya," a violation of the country's strict religious laws. The man was denounced by his Muslim partner who wanted full possession of the business they shared.
Pray that this innocent man will be released, and that his response will be a witness to his Muslim partner. "But I will walk in the name of the LORD our God forever."
Converts tortured in Libya
Four Christian converts from Islam were detained and tortured in Libya.
Pray for God's hope and protection for these new believers. "And so the LORD, the God of hosts, will be with you."
Freed from a Libyan prison
Praise the Lord! After 8 long years, a Ghanaian believer who was accused of attempting to convert Muslims in Libya and sentenced to 25 years in prison has finally been released.
Oh Lord, continue to strengthen and shepherd this man by Your Holy Spirit. "To declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison."
Christians Released from Jail
UPDATE: The four Christians who were being detained in LIBYA (5/5/09) have been released.
Please pray for their restoration and that they continue to stand for Christ. "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever."