Open Doors

Encounter Henley Welcomes Guest Preacher: Sarah Boyens In this powerful and eye-opening message, Sarah Boyens from Open Doors Australia sheds light on the reality facing the global persecuted Church—where 1 in 7 Christians worldwide (over 388 million believers) face high or extreme levels of persecution for their faith. Tracing the 70-year legacy of Open Doors from Brother Andrew ("God's Smuggler") to today's work in Asia and Africa, Sarah reveals that Open Doors doesn't seek to end persecution—which Scripture promises—but to stand alongside and strengthen believers on the frontlines. Unpacking King Jehoshaphat’s response in 2 Chronicles 20 when surrounded by three vast armies, Sarah shares how we can learn from persecuted Christians to turn our gaze away from overwhelming circumstances and set our eyes fixated on Jesus. Key Highlights & Takeaways The Legacy of Brother Andrew: How Open Doors began in 1955 smuggling Bibles behind the Iron Curtain with the famous Smuggler’s Prayer: "Lord, make seeing eyes blind." The Reality of Persecution: The modern scope of Christian persecution across Asia (where 2 in 5 believers face extreme pressure) and Africa, including systemic "squeeze" persecution in North Korea and China. Standing in the Midst, Not Ending It: Understanding 2 Timothy 3:12—why persecution is a promise for those following Christ, and how presence ministry, Bible distribution, and practical aid empower believers to stay resilient. The Jehoshaphat Principle: When faced with fear and impossible odds, King Jehoshaphat made the deliberate choice to inquire of the Lord rather than rely on military strategy. Setting Your Face Like Flint: Why you cannot fix your eyes on Jesus while simultaneously letting your circumstances have the final say over your perspective. Connect with Encounter Church Henley: Website: encounteradelaide.com.au Instagram: @encounterhenley