Welcome to 2023! We are excited to dive into learning about evangelism and Islam even more this year, starting with our new series: The Christian’s Current Events Guide. At the beginning of every month, we’ll review important current events that have happened in the past four weeks so that you can get updates on what is happening in the world from a trustworthy source. We’ll outline how you can use that topic to point your Muslim friend to Jesus and even educate your Christian friends!
Many things are going on as we turn the clocks from 2022 to 2023, and obviously we can’t talk about everything going on in the world. But let’s look at some events that could be harder to talk about, so that you are prepared to either bring it up in a conversation or respond when your Muslim friend brings it up.
Iranian Protests
In November 2022, Iran was our country of the month to pray for particularly because of the protests that exploded across the country after a young woman was allegedly killed by the Iranian Morality Police for wearing a hijab incorrectly. Since then, there have been multiple executions of protesters in Iran, and Iran has been removed from the UN Commission on the Status of Women. As the Islamic government cracks down on censorship laws and control of the population, many Iranians have tried to raise awareness of what is happening through social media. It is possible that there will be a major revolution in the future of Iran.
What Christians should say about this:
There is a special balance that must be struck between proper concern and passion for what is going on and keeping a Kingdom mindset. The human rights abuses in Iran are terrible and should be stopped. We should also be praying for the underground Church in Iran! This is a great time for them to share how Jesus values women as well as be a beacon of hope in a country that has lost hope.
To prepare for talking about the treatment of women under Islam, we recommend reading these posts so that you have the right tools and information:
The Taliban in Afghanistan
The rule of the Taliban in Afghanistan has continued to worsen the conditions for Christians and all women in the country. The newest update is a decree from the Taliban that the judges in the country should start passing judgments according to Sharia Law. This means that any Afghani who converted to Christianity, if found out, will be killed. Already, women and girls are banned from almost every public space as well as from attending school. Even though people claim that the Taliban are the “extreme” side of Islam, the truth is that they are simply carrying out true Islam based on the Quran.
What Christians should say about this:
If this topic comes up with your Muslim friend, do not use it as a chance to attack Islam. This will shut them down and make them feel unsafe in your relationship. Instead, focus on the situation of the people in Afghanistan and how it is affecting them, in terms of freedom and human rights. Ask your friend questions to see how they feel about the situation and what their take is on the new laws. Talk about how you have been praying for the people of Afghanistan, and ask if they see a difference between Sharia law and the love of Jesus and His commandments. If you notice the possibility of entering a conversation about Sharia Law with your Muslim friend, read this guide first to help you prepare:
Here is a biblical reminder to be wise in your conversations, especially with sensitive topics:
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” Colossians 4:6
Prayer for talking about current events
Dear Lord, please give me wisdom as I speak with my Muslim friend. Give me the right words that can show them your heart, not my own, when it comes to what is happening in the world. Thank you for the opportunity to live in a place with free speech and the ability to have these conversations. Amen.
