For security reasons we're calling our contact Joseph. Joseph works with Partners International in North Africa. He says, "The number of Christians there has grown significantly in numbers, in some countries like 1000-percent. I'm assuming that most of it is because some Muslims are not happy themselves are not happy with what other Muslims are doing."
According to Joseph, one-on-one evangelism is about the only way to share their faith. He tells us about a man who wanted to know more about Christ. "He took my friend an hour way into the desert where they could be alone and after a couple of hours of listening the guys said, 'I want to be a Christian.' And, like him, there are many."
With the large number of people turning Christ, are authorities putting pressure on Christians? Joseph says, "Not yet. I believe the authorities are staying away from all this. I believe they don't want to cause problems with the west by targeting Christians. So, at this point we're sensing more and more freedom."
Since these are Muslim countries, being a converted Christian is difficult, especially in your own family. "Imagine you are a mother and a father, you've converted, you are now a Christian, but it's difficult and almost impossible to share this with your children. Obviously your children don't have the same security concerns, so they are going to talk to their friends. And, I believe that's the most difficult thing for these parents."
While one-on-one evangelism is the best way to share their faith, Joseph says those opporunities come through, "Holistic humanitarian activities. So, in a sense we are showing our love and that caries a lot of weight."
Partners International is doing that by drilling water wells, helping disabled children learn to get around and teaching them a trade, building latrines, and providing literacy training. All of these efforts require prayer and financial support.
You can help Partners International do even more. Click here to help.
