Ep. 27 | Hope for the Persecuted Church

Worldwide, the first Sunday in November starts the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. This is a time set apart for over 365 million Christians around the world who suffer persecution or discrimination for their faith in Jesus Christ. Research from Open Doors’ 2024 World Watch List reveals that they experience some kind of hostility as a result of proclaiming the name of Jesus or living out their faith.  Following Jesus in so many places is dangerous and violent. Simply living out your faith can be enough to get your church attacked or closed—or to get you killed.This year, Nigeria ranks No. 6 on the 2024 World Watch List and is far and away the most violent country in the world for followers of Jesus. A staggering 4,118 Christians were killed for their faith in Nigeria during the 2024 World Watch List reporting period—82% of the total number of believers killed for their faith.During this episode, we unpack the complexities of Nigeria's social and religious landscape with our hosts, Jerry Anze and David Joel, ILI's National Coordinator in Nigeria. Discover how Boko Haram's journey from religious dissatisfaction to a violent insurgency impacts the nation, and explore the intricate dynamics of the Fulani herdsmen's migration spurred by desertification.Amidst these difficulties, we draw strength and inspiration from biblical teachings, particularly 1 Corinthians 15:58, offering hope to those enduring persecution. Our conversation sheds light on the power of steadfast faith, emphasizing how God's unwavering love and guidance can fortify us through trials. We urge listeners to remain immovable in their faith, encouraging them to focus on Christ as the ultimate source of victory, even as Nigeria grapples with its current hardships.As Christians, we have a biblical command to care for our persecuted sisters and brothers who live around the world. In 1 Corinthians 12:25-26, St. Paul writes: “But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.”  For more information, visit https://iliteam.org/idop.Today's Hosts: Jerry Anze - ILI Associate Director for Global Online MobilizationDavid Joel - ILI Director - Nigeria, AfricaSupport the showJoin a community of leaders who are ready to change history and make an impact in this world. When you take part in ILI training, you will discover how ILI's Eight Core Values will help you transform your leadership. Discover more at ILITeam.org/discover.