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Astonishing twist
For those who have heard stories about persecuted Christians
in Africa, it might be surprising to learn that nearly 50%
of all Africans are Christians. And for those used to reading
about religious freedom violations, it might also seem peculiar
that—in many cases—government officials have
nothing to do with suffering Christians on this continent.
Nevertheless, the torment for countless African Christians
is extreme. And the suffering they endure is no less real than
that of Christians in any other persecuted region.
A religious fault line
An invisible—but easily identifiable—line extends
across the continent of Africa. Beginning on the west coast
of Sierra Leone, and moving straight eastward to the Indian
Ocean, is where the bulk of persecution takes place. The vast
majority of African Christians reside south of this line. On
the other hand, the northern population is almost entirely
Muslim.
Where these two religions meet is nothing short of a full-scale
collision. And Christians in countries like Nigeria, Sudan,
and Ethiopia face the brunt of this conflict on a daily basis.
A different kind of pain
When a northern African acknowledges faith in Jesus Christ,
he is viewed as a traitor to his family, his neighbors, and
his culture. And choosing to accept this status does not
come without its consequences. African Christians often forfeit
their burial rights, their standing within the community,
and the love of their family.
In addition, African culture does not view child custody in
the same light as most Westerners. The dowry given for a marriage
often dictates to whom a child belongs. As a result, many Muslim
families have taken children away from their parents when the
mother or father converted to Christianity.
Violence persists
In several instances, the persecution of African Christians
has also included violence. Even in recent days, religious
extremists have struck out with horrendous acts of torture.
Compass reports that a Nigerian pastor
and 48 members of his congregation were among 200 killed
February 2004. Religious militants had attacked the church
in a rampage within the predominantly Christian village. In
addition, they went through the village killing Christians
and burning down their houses.
Compass goes on to report that, the
day after the pastor’s funeral, a group of bandits
burned down two additional church sanctuaries.
Power through prayer
In the midst of such extreme pain and violence, Africans are
still turning to Jesus Christ. Lift up these Christians in
your prayers. Ask God to provide them protection as well
as the strength to live out their faith on a daily basis.
Pray also for those who are committing the crimes against
Christianity. Pray that they, like the Apostle Paul, will turn
away from their wickedness and come to fully understand the
grace of our loving God.
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Africa