Iran (MNN) ― Iran is marking the 30th anniversary of the Islamic revolution this week.
The 10 days of anniversary festivities highlight the homecoming of the late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. In 1979, his return from exile sparked mass protests, led to the ouster of the shah, and opened the door for Muslim clerics to take over.
To the hardliners, the celebrations mark a freedom from the West and a resolution to keep reformists out of government.
Todd Nettleton with Voice of the Martyrs notes the irony of the "freedom" celebrations from the perspective of a believer. "The freedom extends to those who agree with the Islamic government, with those who agree to uphold their policies."
However, according to Compass Direct sources, pressure against Christians has increased in recent months, resulting in the detention of approximately 50 believers across the country.
Nettleton observes that the freedom being touted by Iran's government "does not extend to Christians. It doesn't extend to opposition parties that want to run in the election. It's a very limited freedom, and yet that seems to be the theme they're focusing on."
In September 2008, Iran's parliament voted for a draft law that would mandate the death penalty for those convicted of apostasy.
The draft law, a clear attempt to deter conversion from Islam, defines an apostate as "any Muslim who clearly announces that he/she has left Islam and declares blasphemy."
In spite of this draft law, evangelism continues. In fact, outside ministries are utilizing television and radio to share the Gospel.
Disillusionment is rampant among young people, which ironically is an opening for the hope of Christ. "The hunger that exists in that country and the way they respond when they hear the Good News is just remarkable," says Nettleton. "They are finding that the hopelessness of Islam doesn't answer the questions of their heart, and the Gospel does answer those questions. So, the church is growing."
Pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for Iranian Christians as they continue to spread the Gospel despite sustained pressure from the Islamic government of the nation. Ask God to frustrate the attempts of those who hinder the expansion of His Kingdom.
