Afghanistan (MNN) — Afghans who come to Christ are not discouraged by the threatening shadow of persecution. Instead, they follow the Great Commission, even when it costs their security and health.
“Gospel has no boundaries, and Gospel is limitless to any country,” says Nehemiah from FMI. And testimonies coming from Afghanistan show that God is on the move. Yet, the Gospel work often comes with a price.
One of those testimonies comes from Lala Zeeshan, a Muslim-background believer who was baptized two years ago. Since then, he has faithfully served alongside the FMI team, helping distribute audio Bibles across Afghanistan so people can hear Scripture in a format that fits the realities of life under pressure and limited access.
Representative photo of Badakhshan, Afghanistan (courtesy of Joel Heard via Unsplash)
That kind of ministry carries risk. When Lala Zeeshan came to Christ, people from his former religious community attacked him.
“His arm and one of his ribs were broken due to persecution by members of a former faith community, Islam, and there was a Muslim extremist who wanted to kill him. Even then he chose to publicly declare his faith in Jesus,” explains Nehemiah.
Despite those threats, he continued serving — until a recent attack.
“During the current Audio Bible distribution campaign in Afghanistan, Lala Zeeshan was brutally attacked by extremists because of his involvement in sharing God’s word,” says Nehemiah.
According to FMI, the assault left him with multiple stab wounds to the lower abdomen and serious injuries. With limited medical facilities available locally, he was given initial emergency care and then transported out of the country for further treatment. By God’s grace, he survived the attack and reached a place where he could receive more comprehensive help.
“This attack is a sobering reminder of the very real cost many believers faced for following Jesus Christ and making His Word known,” adds Nehemiah.
Nehemiah says this situation needs focused prayer from the global Church — not only for Lala Zeeshan’s physical recovery, but also for protection and perseverance for believers serving under constant threat. He says:
“It’s an urgent prayer request for our listeners, please [pray for the] complete healing of Lala Zeeshan’s body and protection from infection or complications.”
Pray for the endurance of Afghan believers as they share God’s love with their communities, and for open hearts as Scripture reaches new areas through audio Bible distribution.
Visit FMI to support their work in Afghanistan.
Header photo: Street scene in Kabul, Afghanistan ( courtesy of Farid Ershad via Unsplash)
