Church Growth and Development in Afghanistan, Despite Taliban Oppression and Threats
Churches in Afghanistan are growing and expanding despite Taliban oppression and threats.
Christians in Afghanistan face mortal danger, which is why all religious activities, worship, evangelism, prayer, and other practices are conducted in secret. The Taliban must not be aware of these activities because being Christian in Afghanistan is equivalent to imprisonment or death.
“Greg Kelly” from the organization “Nations Unknown” said: “Whenever instability is created by Taliban leaders, humanitarian needs increase. We must find ways to support Christian organizations operating in Afghanistan. This is itself an effective way to penetrate the hearts of Afghans. When the Gospel begins to grow in a society, it automatically multiplies itself. However, in Afghanistan, the Taliban are very unpredictable in dealing with Christians. This behavior, combined with fierce hostility toward the West, has created a dangerous environment at all levels of society.”
He equated Afghanistan with North Korea due to lack of access to educational services or the difficulty of the issue, and added: “Taliban officials usually search for those who have converted from Islam to Christianity. Although they do not have a correct understanding of the Holy Spirit and God’s work, they know that finding one Christian usually indicates the presence of more people in the area. Despite all these problems and dangers, Afghan believers are willing to risk their lives to obtain the Bible and Christian teachings. Their perseverance is reminiscent of the spirit of the early church.”
The organization “Nations Unknown,” which supports Afghan refugees, particularly Afghan Christians, emphasized that the greatest need of the Afghan church is spiritual education and leadership development. Greg Kelly said in this regard: “The internet is a powerful tool that is being used effectively, but after that there is a need for personal participation. When Afghans become acquainted with Jesus, their only desire is to share His message, even if their lives are at risk.”
