Iran (MNN) — This Sunday marks the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in Iran. On February 11, 1979, a new republic based on Islamic values was established under then Ayatollah Khomeini. Iranians are near the close of their annual, ten-day celebration leading up to the anniversary.
It is a national celebration, but what does it mean to people today? Amir with Heart4Iran says, “Actually, these days the Islamic Republic(‘s) popularity has dropped in the past year.”
Amir says this decrease in trust for the regime probably comes from its executions and suppression of the women’s rights movement.
Even from the beginning, the revolution failed in its promises for religious freedom.
“They say that ‘All the religions, they are free.’ But that was not right, because they start(ed) to persecute Christians. They start(ed) to persecute Baha’is. Life changed a lot for many, many people in Iran.”
Join Iranian believers in prayer for the future (Photo courtesy of Heart4Iran)
Jews were also among those who received persecution. Tensions between Sunni and Shia Muslims were also present.
“Christian now more than ever, must shine in the light of Christ upon the darkness created by the Islamic Republic in Iran. If every Christian were to share the gospel with just one person today and they repent, imagine how much the situation in Iran would be change(d).” says Amir.
Some believers are not afraid of what their faith in Christ may cost them, but at the same time they are concerned for the safety of their families. That’s why some Christians have chosen to leave the country. Pray for courage for those who remain in Iran — especially Muslim-background believers, who often face additional pressures and threats.
Finally, join Heart4Iran in praying for Iranians who have not yet accepted Christ.
“We have to love them and pray for them until they see the face of the Christ, because everybody need(s) love. Praise the Lord, in Christianity, God is love,” says Amir.
Click here to learn more about the ministry vision of Heart4Iran to see all of Iran saved.
Header photo of Tehran, Iran courtesy of Hamid Mohammad Hossein Zadeh Hashemi via Unsplash.
