Pakistan (MNN) ― Recent violent attacks on the Christian community in Pakistan are continuing.
After accusing of blasphemy, a Muslim religious leader whipped a mob into a frenzy and led them on an attack on a Christian village June 30th.
The mob destroyed Christians' houses, looted valuables, and tortured believers, beating one man to death. In the aftermath, at least 110 Christian families, almost 700 people, were forced to flee. The families sought safety in the fields surrounding their village.
The government claims it is providing equal rights to religious minorities, including Christians. "Not so," says Todd Nettleton with Voice of the Martyrs. "It's great to say afterward, 'Yes, we want to help you, and we want to make this right.' How much better would it be to actually provide some protection or put a stop to these attacks before they happen?"
In Pakistan, religious minorities are frequently faced with accusations and charges of blasphemy for disrespecting the last prophet of Muslims. From this recent incident, Muslims have registered blasphemy cases against 11 believers.
Although it's risky, people are still coming to Christ. Voice of the Martyrs is still standing alongside the remnant church. Nettleton explains that "Voice of the Martyrs works with the Christians in Pakistan, and in some cases, we are also coming in afterward to try to help them put their lives back together."
It's an opportunity for ministry. "When Christians respond with love and with forgiveness to incidents like this, that can be an incredible spark for revival because the Muslims look at that and they say, 'Wait a minute. How are these people able to respond that way? How are they still able to love us?'"
Pray that persecutors throughout Pakistan will be challenged by the consistent testimony of Christ's followers and be drawn to Him.
