Escape from Iran: When Faith in Christ Means Losing Home
  41 min
Escape from Iran: When Faith in Christ Means Losing Home
Prisoners of Hope
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Episode Summary: Meet Ibrahim, an Iranian Christian who faced a 15-year prison sentence for "propaganda against the regime" - the government's charge for sharing his faith in Jesus Christ.

Key Topics Covered:

Ibrahim's Powerful Testimony (4:13-18:31)

  • 16 years ago, Ibrahim was trapped in severe drug addiction and was planning suicide
  • A relative shared the gospel, which he initially rejected
  • In desperation, he gave Jesus "one last chance" before ending his life
  • A woman prayed for him over the phone, and everything changed
  • He quit drugs cold turkey after 4 days locked in his room
  • His wife came to faith through a powerful dream about baptism

Years of Service Despite Persecution (19:00-24:00)

  • Served faithfully in the underground church for 16 years
  • Led many family members to Christ
  • Helped drug addicts and broken people find freedom in Jesus
  • First arrested 5 years ago and warned to stop all Christian activities
  • Continued ministering despite the warnings

Arrest and Sentencing (24:00-31:00)

  • Arrested in November
  • Charged with "propaganda against the regime"
  • Sentenced to 15 years - one of the harshest sentences for Christians
  • Posted bail through his brother-in-law
  • Fled the country while awaiting appeal

Current Situation:

  • Living in a safe house in a neighboring country
  • Wife and two children successfully escaped and joined him
  • A fellow believer who escaped was caught and sent back to an Iranian prison

Prayer Requests:

  • Safety for Ibrahim and his reunited family
  • Provision as they start a new life in exile
  • Protection for Christians still in Iran
  • Strength for those imprisoned for their faith

Questions from Listeners (34:33-40:44)

  • Why is there such a drug problem in Iran?
  • What is the Pedaraneh online ministry?
  • Are dreams and visions really leading Muslims to Christ?
  • How does Help the Persecuted assist escapees?

About This Episode: This episode was recorded in one of Help the Persecuted's safe houses with the help of a translator. Ibrahim's story exemplifies the cost of following Christ in Iran today, where house churches operate underground and believers face lengthy prison sentences for their faith.

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Note: Names and some details have been changed to protect the safety of those still in Iran.