Recently, I have come across numerous stories detailing increased persecution of Christians in some countries in Africa. In northern Nigeria, there have been several reports of Muslims attacking Christians and attempts to have them recant their faith. In these cases, I have seen believers choosing to remain faithful in the midst of great persecution. Some Christians have lost their homes, jobs and sometimes their lives because they choose to stand for Jesus Christ and refuse to yield to the pressure exerted on them by Muslims.
I came across an amazing example of this same courage in the book, Jesus Freaks, Stories of Those Who Stood for Jesus: The Ultimate Jesus Freaks, compiled by dc Talk and The Voice of the Martyrs. As you read about the dedication and faithfulness of the believer in this story, pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who face many different challenges, as they serve Jesus Christ.
A Burnt Offering: Philip, Sudan, 1996 (p.263):
The guards picked up a burning log from the fire. “Renounce your faith in Jesus Christ!” they commanded. “We will burn you and cut you until you become a Muslim.” Philip had been taken to a military barracks along with thirty-five other Christians. Islamic officials began to beat them and curse them.
For eleven days, Philip and several of his friends were bound, beaten, and burned as government soldiers tried to convert them to the Islamic faith. None of the twelve women survived the torture. Philip still bears the scars on his chest left by the burning log used to torture him. He later told reporters: “My faith was very strong when they burned me. I prayed, ‘God I will never forget You.’ I refused to be a Muslim because I knew God was with me.”
To purchase Jesus Freaks go to www.vombooks.com