Podcasts about persecuted church

Mona and Michael are zealous disciples dedicated to sharing their faith and helping those in need, particularly within their community in Egypt. Mona grew up in a Christian family and found comfort in her faith after a difficult childhood marked by her mother's death. Michael, on the other hand, discovered his faith in Jesus later in life. Together, they felt called to ministry and have committed their lives to sharing the hope and love that can only be found in Jesus. Listen as they talk about Christian persecution faced by believers in Egypt, including discrimination in employment and education. These hardships have led church members to rely on one another. As Mona says, "The church becomes our family. We need each other." Muslims who choose to follow Jesus often face severe persecution from family and community, and at times from the government. They may also face severe pressure from a Muslim spouse. Mona reminds us, though, that Muslims around them are not their enemies. They know that the real enemy is the devil and emphasize that we are called to love others in the same way Christ loved us. Michael and Mona actively support refugees from war-torn countries, including Sudan, providing food and resources regardless of religious background. These acts of care and service often open doors for conversations about faith. Please pray for followers of Jesus in Egypt to remain strong and to be equipped to help those in need. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as give free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content, and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

On today's program (#10), we wrap up the Lord's letter to the Pastor of the Church at Smyrna, aka "The Persecuted Church."

Coptic Orthodox Christians comprise the largest Christian community in the Middle East and are among the oldest Christian communities in the world. While once the objects of American missionary efforts, in recent years Copts have been in the spotlight for their Christianity. A spate of ISIS-related bombings and attacks have garnered worldwide attention, leading to a series of efforts from US politicians, think tanks, and NGOs to re-channel their efforts into “saving” these Middle Eastern Christians from Muslims. The increased targeting of Copts has also contributed to the moral imaginary of the “Persecuted Church,” particularly among American evangelicals, which embraces the idea that Christians around the globe are currently being persecuted more than any other time in history.  Drawing on years of extensive fieldwork among Coptic migrants between Egypt and the United States, Martyrs and Migrants: Coptic Christians and the Persecution Politics of US Empire (NYU Press, 2025) examines how American religious imaginaries of global Christian persecution have remapped Coptic collective memory of martyrdom. Transnational Copts have navigated the sociopolitical conditions in Egypt and the global consequences of the US “war on terror” by translating their suffering into the ambiguous forms of religious and political visibility. Candace Lukasik argues that the commingling of American conservatives and Copts has shaped a new kind of Christian kinship in blood, operating through a double movement between glorification and racialization. Occupying a position between threat and victim, Copts from the Middle East have been subject to anti-terror surveillance in the US even as they have leveraged their roles as “persecuted Christians.” Through Lukasik's careful examination of the everyday processes shaping Coptic communal formation, Martyrs and Migrants broadly reveals how ideologies of spiritual kinship are forged through theological histories of martyrdom and of blood, demonstrating the global dynamics and imperial politics of contemporary Christianity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Coptic Orthodox Christians comprise the largest Christian community in the Middle East and are among the oldest Christian communities in the world. While once the objects of American missionary efforts, in recent years Copts have been in the spotlight for their Christianity. A spate of ISIS-related bombings and attacks have garnered worldwide attention, leading to a series of efforts from US politicians, think tanks, and NGOs to re-channel their efforts into “saving” these Middle Eastern Christians from Muslims. The increased targeting of Copts has also contributed to the moral imaginary of the “Persecuted Church,” particularly among American evangelicals, which embraces the idea that Christians around the globe are currently being persecuted more than any other time in history.  Drawing on years of extensive fieldwork among Coptic migrants between Egypt and the United States, Martyrs and Migrants: Coptic Christians and the Persecution Politics of US Empire (NYU Press, 2025) examines how American religious imaginaries of global Christian persecution have remapped Coptic collective memory of martyrdom. Transnational Copts have navigated the sociopolitical conditions in Egypt and the global consequences of the US “war on terror” by translating their suffering into the ambiguous forms of religious and political visibility. Candace Lukasik argues that the commingling of American conservatives and Copts has shaped a new kind of Christian kinship in blood, operating through a double movement between glorification and racialization. Occupying a position between threat and victim, Copts from the Middle East have been subject to anti-terror surveillance in the US even as they have leveraged their roles as “persecuted Christians.” Through Lukasik's careful examination of the everyday processes shaping Coptic communal formation, Martyrs and Migrants broadly reveals how ideologies of spiritual kinship are forged through theological histories of martyrdom and of blood, demonstrating the global dynamics and imperial politics of contemporary Christianity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-studies

Coptic Orthodox Christians comprise the largest Christian community in the Middle East and are among the oldest Christian communities in the world. While once the objects of American missionary efforts, in recent years Copts have been in the spotlight for their Christianity. A spate of ISIS-related bombings and attacks have garnered worldwide attention, leading to a series of efforts from US politicians, think tanks, and NGOs to re-channel their efforts into “saving” these Middle Eastern Christians from Muslims. The increased targeting of Copts has also contributed to the moral imaginary of the “Persecuted Church,” particularly among American evangelicals, which embraces the idea that Christians around the globe are currently being persecuted more than any other time in history.  Drawing on years of extensive fieldwork among Coptic migrants between Egypt and the United States, Martyrs and Migrants: Coptic Christians and the Persecution Politics of US Empire (NYU Press, 2025) examines how American religious imaginaries of global Christian persecution have remapped Coptic collective memory of martyrdom. Transnational Copts have navigated the sociopolitical conditions in Egypt and the global consequences of the US “war on terror” by translating their suffering into the ambiguous forms of religious and political visibility. Candace Lukasik argues that the commingling of American conservatives and Copts has shaped a new kind of Christian kinship in blood, operating through a double movement between glorification and racialization. Occupying a position between threat and victim, Copts from the Middle East have been subject to anti-terror surveillance in the US even as they have leveraged their roles as “persecuted Christians.” Through Lukasik's careful examination of the everyday processes shaping Coptic communal formation, Martyrs and Migrants broadly reveals how ideologies of spiritual kinship are forged through theological histories of martyrdom and of blood, demonstrating the global dynamics and imperial politics of contemporary Christianity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/anthropology

In this episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt chat with Dan Russell, a Las Vegas men's ministry leader with a powerful story of transformation and global impact. Dan opens up about his journey from a challenging season of personal crisis to wholehearted faith, describing how a simple email from an Indian pastor sparked a life-changing connection with the Persecuted Church in India. Dan also shares how the Lord worked a miracle in his son's life during a time of rebellion, bringing him to restoration with God—a work accomplished when a pastor and his congregation in India prayed all night in response to Dan's urgent request.    The conversation explores practical lessons in Christian leadership, the power of unity among believers, and how men's ministry can make a difference both locally and globally. Perfect for listeners interested in church leadership, discipleship, missions, and stories of faith under pressure, this episode underscores the ripple effect of following God's call—even in “Sin City.” Explore what it means to be truly at risk for your faith and be inspired to see how God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things.   Learn more about Spirit of Martyrdom International and give to Global Impact Projects at spiritofmartyrdom.com.

Our focus this hour is on the Persecuted Church. The nation of Iran is making headlines almost every day. But the real story never shows up in the evening news. Why are so many coming to faith in Christ while living in both a repressive regime and a theocracy? Then, we will update you on several stories where believers are paying a price for following Jesus. Get out those prayer lists because today, they will get longer! Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen as Assistant Pastor Ben Uthe preaches from Acts 5:12-42.

Miguel Angel Angeles, executive director of Bethel Radio & TV, shares the history of a ministry that started with one Christian asking a radio station to play audio cassettes of his sermons on the air. As the radio ministry encouraged and built up the church, it expanded into Venezuela, Colombia, and other areas. Today, Bethel is a network of hundreds of radio and television stations, based in Peru and reaching Spanish speakers all over Latin America and the world. Miguel will share about his own start serving in IT with Bethel TV, and how he came to understand the importance of bringing awareness of the persecuted body of Christ through Bethel programming. “My first time listening about the persecuted church was when Petr Jasek came to a conference in Peru to share his testimony,” Miguel said, “and it created a hunger for me to learn more.” After hearing Petr Jasek speak at a conference about his own arrest in Sudan, Miguel's church began to meet every Monday to pray for the persecuted church and to learn more about fellow believers facing Christian persecution. Week after week, God prepared Miguel's heart as it was continuously stretched by the stories of bold faith in the face of hostility and persecution. After reading Tortured for Christ, by Richard Wurmbrand, the founder of The Voice of the Martyrs, Miguel knew he needed to share about persecuted Christians with the broader church in Latin America and with his radio audience. Listen as Miguel shares the heart of his church for missions. Churches dedicate one Sunday a month to focus on missions and missionaries. You and your church will be encouraged to make missions and praying for persecuted Christians a regular part of your worship gatherings as well. Pray this week for Miguel, his family, and Bethel Radio & TV as they continue serving the Lord and sharing the voice of persecuted Christians with Spanish-speaking people around the world. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as providing free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

What parts of the world are the most challenging for believers today? How has the relative comfort of American Christianity impacted spiritual growth, compared to communities experiencing persecution? What habits could American Christian adopt to more regularly remember and support our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world? We'll answer these questions and more with our guest, Brian Orme, CEO of Global Christian Relief. Brian Orme is CEO of Global Christian Relief, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the persecuted church around the world. He founded ChurchLeaders.com, served as Senior Editor at Outreach magazine, and spent over a decade in pastoral ministry—equipping churches for both local and global impact. Join us for ANCHORED: A Conference for Pastors, Church Leaders and the Community June 9-11, 2025. Hosted by Talbot School of Theology at Biola University in Southern California. Learn more and register at https://www.biola.edu/anchored ==========Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California. Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically. Watch video episodes at: https://bit.ly/think-biblically-video. To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.

We're kicking off Season 5 of the FT Podcast with an insightful and encouraging conversation on a topic rarely talked about in Christian circles. In this episode, Brother Ronji joins us on the other side of the mic to talanoa/chat about the persecuted church, what the Bible says about persecution, and how he and his wife got into ministry serving persecuted brethren. He discusses the reality of Christian persecution around the world, the challenges some believers face for simply being a disciple of Jesus Christ, and what believers, particularly in the West can learn from those who are persecuted for the gospel of Jesus Christ. Brother Ronji offers up some wonderful challenges, encouragement and practical ways we can support and stand with our persecuted brethren. This episode is in many ways a reminder of the words of Jesus in John 15:18: “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.” A timely and sobering encouragement for followers of Messiah to stand firm in biblical truth and the gospel of Jesus Christ, regardless of the cost. Be challenged, encouraged, and stirred to live more boldly for Christ, to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ and to go and tell of the saving gospel of Jesus Christ. #SDGFresh Truth Ministries has been immensely blessed by the service and labour of our fellow uso Ronji, unto the LORD, through this #budgetbutblessed ministry. What a blessing and gift to the body of Christ to have Ronji speak on a subject that's dear to him for his final FT podcast before he and his beautiful wife head back onto the mission field to serve the persecuted church.

Copyright WGNR Radio 2025Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshow/wgnrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This hour, we get a report from Dr. Hormoz Shariat, of Iran Alive ministries, as he shares how the average Iranian is handling the mounting tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States. We then lengthen your prayer list by getting a report from Todd Nettleton on how the Persecuted Church is both suffering and surviving. Don’t miss a great hour of conversation.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Moses Masitha, of Global Christian Relief | Host: Julian Gibb How many persecuted Christians are in the world? What can I do? Moses says, "Don't let the magnitude of the problem cripple your heart, deter you from taking steps." Learn what steps you can take. globalchristianrelief.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here in America, the church has begun to suffer, if not outright persecution, at least some degree of prejudice. Might it get worse in our lifetime? The short answer is yes, the treatment of Bible-believing Christians here at home may very well grow worse in the coming years. With that in mind, Ron has three critical lessons to teach us today as he continues his teaching series, “Ready For His Return,” based on Revelation chapters 1-3.   

Here in America, we hear the stories of Christians being persecuted or killed for their faith all over the world. Could something like that happen in the United States? Today, Ron takes us to the second of seven letters written to the churches in the book of Revelation. It's a sobering letter to the church at Smyrna, telling them they are about to suffer great persecution for their faith. Could something like that ever take place here at home? Find out next, as Ron continues his teaching series, “Ready For His Return,” based on Revelation chapters 1-3.  

Forgive Douglas Murray, For He Knows Not What He Doeshttps://crisismagazine.com/opinion/forgive-douglas-murray-for-he-knows-not-what-he-does Follow Jason on Locals: https://jasonjones.locals.com/and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/osu4491Visit Movie to Movement @ www.MovieToMovement.comAnd the Vulnerable People Project: www.vulnerablepeopleproject.com

Phim tư liệu: Bên Trong Hội Thánh Bị Bắt Bớ Tại Bắc Triều Tiên Chuyển ngữ: Đội ngũ Ba-rúcNguồn: RadicalVideo gốc:    • Inside the Persecuted Church of North...  ---------------------------------The Giang Luan Kinh Thanh (Biblical Preaching) YouTube channel is dedicated to providing biblically faithful sermons and messages from respected Christian speakers. Our content is specifically designed to uplift and support pastors and believers in Vietnam, where access to resources for Christian teaching can be limited. As a non-profit initiative, our mission is to offer encouragement and spiritual guidance to believers striving to serve God in their communities.We would like to inform you that some videos may not have obtained formal copyright permissions prior to translation. We sincerely appreciate the understanding and forgiveness of copyright holders regarding this matter. If you have any concerns or inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us at giangluankinhthanh@gmail.com.Anh chị em có thể nghe bài giảng audio của Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh tại địa chỉ sau:Spotify: https://sum.vn/HybEqApple podcast: https://sum.vn/SccJBGiảng Luận Kinh Thánh là dự án dịch thuật/lồng tiếng sang tiếng Việt các bài giảng, thông điệp Cơ Đốc kinh điển của những diễn giả đã được thời gian khẳng định và cộng đồng Cơ đốc chung xác nhận. Đây là dự án phi lợi nhuận nhằm cung cấp nguồn tư liệu cho các tôi tớ cùng con dân Chúa tham khảo và sử dụng miễn phí. Để hiểu hơn về chúng tôi vui lòng truy cập website :https://giangluankinhthanh.net/Đội ngũ Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoan nghênh mọi đề nghị cộng tác của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong các lĩnh vực như dịch thuật, lồng tiếng, quảng bá, cầu thay, v.v. Nếu quý con cái Chúa sẵn lòng đóng góp công sức của mình vào bất cứ lĩnh vực nào, cùng đồng công trong những sứ điệp giúp tỉnh thức nhiều người.Xin vui lòng điền thông tin cá nhân vào biểu mẫu sau: Kênh Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoạt động vì các mục tiêu phi lợi nhuận, không phát quảng cáo. Vì vậy, chúng tôi mong tiếp tục nhận được sự dâng hiến và ủng hộ của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong việc phát triển kênh. Quý vị có thể dâng hiến theo thông tin trong biểu mẫu sau: https://sum.vn/ZZ19mNếu bạn muốn dâng hiến cho các hoạt động của Kênh, xin vui lòng chuyển khoản cho chúng tôi vào số tài khoản dưới đây:Tên tài khoản: Nguyen Thanh Tung - Nguyen Dinh HungSố tài khoản VND: 0010174709250 Số tài khoản USD: 0200143705194 Tên ngân hàng: Ngân hàng MB Bank – Chi nhánh Hoài Đức (Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank - Hoai Duc Branch)SWIFT CODE: MSCBVNVXXin chân thành cảm ơn!#Giangluankinhthanh #hoithanh #batbo #trieutien #codocnhan #hoithanhtinlanh #phimtulieu

Phim tư liệu: Bên Trong Hội Thánh Bị Bắt Bớ Tại Bắc Triều Tiên Chuyển ngữ: Đội ngũ Ba-rúcNguồn: RadicalVideo gốc:    • Inside the Persecuted Church of North...  ---------------------------------The Giang Luan Kinh Thanh (Biblical Preaching) YouTube channel is dedicated to providing biblically faithful sermons and messages from respected Christian speakers. Our content is specifically designed to uplift and support pastors and believers in Vietnam, where access to resources for Christian teaching can be limited. As a non-profit initiative, our mission is to offer encouragement and spiritual guidance to believers striving to serve God in their communities.We would like to inform you that some videos may not have obtained formal copyright permissions prior to translation. We sincerely appreciate the understanding and forgiveness of copyright holders regarding this matter. If you have any concerns or inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us at giangluankinhthanh@gmail.com.Anh chị em có thể nghe bài giảng audio của Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh tại địa chỉ sau:Spotify: https://sum.vn/HybEqApple podcast: https://sum.vn/SccJBGiảng Luận Kinh Thánh là dự án dịch thuật/lồng tiếng sang tiếng Việt các bài giảng, thông điệp Cơ Đốc kinh điển của những diễn giả đã được thời gian khẳng định và cộng đồng Cơ đốc chung xác nhận. Đây là dự án phi lợi nhuận nhằm cung cấp nguồn tư liệu cho các tôi tớ cùng con dân Chúa tham khảo và sử dụng miễn phí. Để hiểu hơn về chúng tôi vui lòng truy cập website :https://giangluankinhthanh.net/Đội ngũ Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoan nghênh mọi đề nghị cộng tác của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong các lĩnh vực như dịch thuật, lồng tiếng, quảng bá, cầu thay, v.v. Nếu quý con cái Chúa sẵn lòng đóng góp công sức của mình vào bất cứ lĩnh vực nào, cùng đồng công trong những sứ điệp giúp tỉnh thức nhiều người.Xin vui lòng điền thông tin cá nhân vào biểu mẫu sau: Kênh Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoạt động vì các mục tiêu phi lợi nhuận, không phát quảng cáo. Vì vậy, chúng tôi mong tiếp tục nhận được sự dâng hiến và ủng hộ của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong việc phát triển kênh. Quý vị có thể dâng hiến theo thông tin trong biểu mẫu sau: https://sum.vn/ZZ19mNếu bạn muốn dâng hiến cho các hoạt động của Kênh, xin vui lòng chuyển khoản cho chúng tôi vào số tài khoản dưới đây:Tên tài khoản: Nguyen Thanh Tung - Nguyen Dinh HungSố tài khoản VND: 0010174709250 Số tài khoản USD: 0200143705194 Tên ngân hàng: Ngân hàng MB Bank – Chi nhánh Hoài Đức (Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank - Hoai Duc Branch)SWIFT CODE: MSCBVNVXXin chân thành cảm ơn!#Giangluankinhthanh #hoithanh #batbo #trieutien #codocnhan #hoithanhtinlanh #phimtulieu

Copyright WGNR Radio 2025Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshow/wgnrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday on Mornings with Eric and Brigitte, Todd Nettleton with Voice of the Martyrs joins us to give us an update on The Persecuted Church. Todd Nettleton serves as a voice for persecuted Christians, working with the media to tell people in the United States about the faithfulness of Christ's followers in 70+ nations where they face persecution for wearing His name. Voice of the MartyrsDonate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshow/wrmbSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get ready to think critically and biblically this hour. We start with some of the stories making headlines before we hear from Dr. George Barna on his latest research on how Americans are minimizing the role of God in their lives. We round out the hour with Todd Nettleton who will give us very specific prayer requests coming from the Persecuted Church. Don’t miss this impactful hour of conversation. Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

JJ Samie Miles shares about her journey to becoming a published author. she gives insight into the real life inspiration to some of her stories and gets asked the impossible question...Hear from her first hand as to how her chronic illness impacts her writing career and the legacy she wants to leave as a writer.

In this episode Pastor Raef interviews Andy Coleman, author of the soon to be released book 'The Days of Darkness'. Andy's ministry focuses primarily on the persecuted church around the globe. Using his experience in some of the most persecuted environments, he shares not only how we can stay engaged with those who are persecuted for their faith around the globe, but also warns us how we can be aware of persecution in our own culture, and how to stand courageously for Christ in the midst of it.

Copyright WGNR Radio 2025Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshow/wgnrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on At Rist Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt join Pastor Bart Howell to discuss impactful leadership and missions. Be inspired by Pastor Bart's journey from a local Texan to a fervent advocate for global missions—including his transformation and dedication to leveraging church resources for worldwide impact, particularly within the Persecuted Church. This episode explores firsthand experiences from Pastor Bart's travels to India and North Africa. He also explains a strategy that empowers church members to live on mission and understand the vital role of support in global outreach. Pastor Bart encourages others to foster a church culture where every member sees themselves as part of the missions department. Learn more about SOM International at https://spiritofmartyrdom.com.

You don't want to miss today's episode as Dr. Piper introduces the Rebellion's flagship ministry sponsor, Equipping the Persecuted with founder Judd Saul. As attacks against Christians have escalated exponentially. One of the places hit the hardest is Nigeria. Since its inception, ETP has reached over 400,000 persecuted Christians with essential aid such as food, medicine, and sanitary supplies. One of the key differences that ETP makes over and above other organizations is that they go beyond providing aid and actively engage in preventative measures by training local security teams and government officials to stop the killing before it happens. . If you want to know more about ETP – an organization and ministry that is truly making a difference – go to www.EquippingThePersecuted.org

February 23,2025

Send us a textRevelation 2:8-11This week, we're continuing our short series of episodes where we'll explore each letter at the beginning of the book of Revelation. This week, we're walking through the second letter to the Church in Smyrna, the Persecuted Church. We also would like to invite anyone who lives in the Philadelphia area to worship and study God's word with us at our in-person meeting that takes place every-other Monday night at 7:30pm. Visit phillyyoungadults.com for additional information about our ministry.Feel free to message us on instagram (@phillyyoungadultscc) with any feedback, questions, or topics you want to hear about on the podcast or you can shoot an email to ya@ccphilly.org

Copyright WGNR Radio 2025Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshow/wgnrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After being recognized at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast last week, New Jersey Congressman Chris Smith joins to discuss religious freedom within our own country as well as across the globe including the Nigeria, Nicaragua, and China where Catholics are severely persecuted for their faith. With a new movie coming to theaters next weekend, director and screenwriter Mauro Borelli shares what motivated him to make the film, and why viewers see Judas in a whole new light. Msgr. Roger Landry also joins discussing how best to make the most of these 40 days of Lent. Catch the show every Saturday at 7amET/5pmET on EWTN radio!

Tony Balsamo

In this episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and SOM CEO David Witt sit down with John Abendschan, an assistant athletic director and church elder, to explore the transformative power of faith and leadership amidst life's challenges. John shares his journey from a high school football coach in Texas to becoming deeply involved with SOM International, particularly focusing on his life-changing mission trip to India. Discover how his encounter with India's Persecuted Church reshaped his perspective, infusing his leadership with spiritual depth and global awareness. Additionally, John shares his personal struggle as he supports his wife through her battle with cancer, finding hope and strength in their shared faith. This episode is a heartfelt testament to the power of leadership, community, and unwavering belief in the face of adversity.  Learn more about SOM International at https://spiritofmartyrdom.com. 

Copyright WGNR Radio 2025Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshow/wgnrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This hour we take a look at how the Gospel changes everything – and everyone. Join us to hear exciting stories of what is happening in Iran and how that nation is being changed, one soul at a time. Then, we will get an update on the Persecuted Church and hear how to pray specifically for brothers and sisters who find themselves in harm’s way because they decided to follow Jesus. Get ready to lengthen your prayer list.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No recriminations for Smyrna - but there is trouble coming.

Rev 2:8-11 Persecution, troubles, trials. These are some words that we probably don't want to hear. However, for the Christian they're undoubtedly unavoidable. Jesus spoke at length about these topics. So, it's important for us to think about these things and to consider how God wants us to respond to them. Listen this week as we continue our study in the book of revelation.

Thursday on Mornings with Eric and Brigitte, Todd Nettleton from Voice of the Martyrs will give us an update on The Persecuted Church. During his more than 25 years of service with VOM, Todd has traveled the world and conducted face-to-face interviews with hundreds of Christians who have suffered persecution in more than 40 nations. Todd serves as a voice for persecuted Christians, inspiring other followers of Christ through the examples of those living in more than 70 hostile and restricted nations where VOM works. The Voice of the Martyrs Free Prayer Guide - Voice of the MartyrsDonate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshow/wrmbSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us this hour as we get an insider’s perspective on what is happening in Iran, both politically and spiritually. Is Iran becoming a Christian nation? We then turn our eyes and our hearts to the Persecuted Church and hear of very specific ways we can pray for our brothers and sisters overseas. Great ready to lengthen your prayer lists.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly every week, I mention my little book, Unbeaten, about my arrest, interrogation, and deportation from China in 2018. The appendix, entitled Remember My Chains, is a message I’ve given all over the world about praying for the persecuted church. You can get the book (and appendix) at Unbeaten.vip. I am turning once again to the late Richard Wurmbrand to speak to us on behalf of those who are currently being imprisoned and tortured for Christ. For those who don't know who Richard Wurmband is, here's a brief intro: Romanian Lutheran minister who spent 14 years in Communist prisons. After “escaping”, published ”Tortured for Christ" and testified to Congress. Founded Voice of the Martyrs (but son Michael doesn’t trust VOM today). Michael Wurmbrand provides his father’s books for free in many languages. Michael Wurmbrand’s Open Letter to Voice of the Martyrs: https://www.billionbibles.com/michael-wurmbrand-vom.html Michael Wurmbrand gives away his father’s books for free: https://richardwurmbrandfoundation.com/ Why the Persecuted Church Will Persevere (The Holy Spirit Cannot Fail) https://chinacall.substack.com/p/why-the-persecuted-church-will-persevere

Aaron Miller, Vice President of International Ministry at The Voice of the Martyrs, joins VOM Radio this week to look back at some of God's blessings he and his team experienced during 2024 and to look ahead at nations where VOM's work may change or expand in 2025. Listen as Aaron recounts a visit to meet Christian widows in Nigeria. These women endured losing their husbands in violent attacks, yet they gathered to worship together and even prayed boldly for their persecutors to come to know Christ. He'll also share the story of a God-ordained encounter with a persecuted pastor's son in southeast Asia—and the sadness of an unmet need when that pastor was imprisoned. Aaron also tells us of meeting with a martyr's widow who still boldly goes out to minister each week in the same area where her husband was murdered. Looking ahead to 2025, Aaron will advise listeners how to pray for Christians facing persecution in Benin, Burkina Faso, Bangladesh and Syria. He'll also tell how Christian persecution has changed in India, which led VOM to reclassify India as a restricted nation in the VOM Global Prayer Guide. Yet Indian Christians still boldly witness for Christ—even inside prison! Finally, Aaron challenges listeners to continue to pay attention to the members of Christ's body facing persecution in this new year—even though it can be painful to witness their suffering and loss. Aaron will suggest some specific ways to pray in these opening weeks of 2025. The first day of the new year marked the launch of a new, daily podcast from VOM: Extreme Devotion is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet helps users pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Naghmeh Abedini Panahi - Part 3 In this moving episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt chat with guest Naghmeh Abedini Panahi as she bravely recounts her journey through an abusive marriage while assuming a vital leadership role in the Persecuted Church within Iran. Naghmeh reveals how her husband's imprisonment brought clarity and personal freedom, leading her to rediscover her identity in Christ amid immense personal loss. As she draws parallels to a phoenix rising from the ashes, Naghmeh's story is one of transformation and resilience. The conversation goes into the challenges faced by the Underground Church amid Iran's political turbulence, highlighting the remarkable spread of Christianity despite persecution. This episode offers listeners Naghmeh's inspiring testimony of healing and renewal, along with nuanced perspectives on the ongoing plight and growth of believers in the Middle East.  Learn more about Naghmeh and her book, I Didn't Survive.

Have you ever been mistreated as a result of your faith in Christ? If so, this episode of Godly Goosebumps—in which Pastor Dudley shares the recording of an interview conducted during a weekend worship service at Shepherd Church—is sure to encourage and inspire you. Join Pastor Dudley as he revisits his moving conversation with Bob Fu, an educator and advocate for the persecuted Church in China and the founder and president of ChinaAid. Born, raised, and educated in China, Bob was a student leader during the deadly 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations before accepting Christ and ministering as a house church leader in Beijing. Ultimately, he and his wife, Heidi, were arrested under the charges of "illegal evangelism" before a miraculous escape enabled them to enter the United States of America as religious refugees. This jaw-dropping episode points to an important Biblical truth: The persecuted will be rewarded. 

For those of us in the West, suffering, and persecution for our faith are minimal. It might be easy to forget that many of our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world are suffering greatly as a result of the gospel. May we “remember their chains.” May we not forget them and may we pray for God's strength, comfort, and help in their time of need.Main Points:1. There are thousands of suffering believers around the world who could say what Paul said, “Remember my chains.” Don't forget about us. Remember us in prayer. Lift us up before the Lord.2. We can pray that persecuted Christians will experience the peace of God in the midst of their suffering. We can only imagine the stress, fear, and anxiety that must accompany such distress.3. We can pray that persecuted Christians remain strong in their faith in Jesus. Let's ask the Lord to enable their faith to grow and that it won't be weakened. Today's Scripture Verses:Colossians 4:18 - “ I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.”Ephesians 6:18-20  - “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.  Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given to me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

With almost 90% of people in Bhutan identifying as Buddhists, those who follow Christ are a tiny minority. Pastor Rajiv, a church planter and leadership trainer in South Asia, works to reach Bhutanese people for Christ and knows what happens when someone follows Jesus in this restricted nation. In Bhutan, the king is seen as both a political and religious leader. One of his duties is defending Buddhism in the nation. Becoming a Christian is seen as being a traitor to the country and the king. It's also against the law, so Christians who gather together must do so in secret. Yet being in fellowship with other believers is crucial to spiritual growth and perseverance. Pastor Rajiv reveals his heart for young people and shares how vital it is for them to meet together to study the Bible and pray with one another. Over the last ten years, God has made Pastor Rajiv's prayers reality: there are now Christian groups that meet on all the college campuses in Bhutan. Rajiv will share his own story of coming to Christ and how he was called into missions. He will also share stories of Bhutanese who have come to faith along with the pressure and Christian persecution they face from the government if they do not renounce Christ. “When you want to live a radical life for Christ, you'll be willing to pay the cost,” Rajiv says. As you learn how to specifically pray for Bhutan and for Pastor Rajiv, pray with Christians all over the world for the persecuted church this month as part of the International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians. Also, be inspired by this year's IDOP video, which features the Martinez family in Colombia. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast.

Fred and Karen, long-time gospel workers in Asia, share this week about the church in Brunei and the challenges they face daily to live boldly for Christ. Christians there can live comfortably—if they don't share the gospel or attempt to witness to ethnic Malay people. Ethnically, the church there is primarily made up of Chinese, Indians and other expats. It is illegal for ethnic Malay people to be present in a church, and many Christians are hesitant to speak about Christianity to a Malay person for fear of Christian persecution. With such strong repercussions for a Malay person following Christ, and for those who shared the gospel with that person, some Christians in Brunei have the mentality that the Malay will never choose Jesus. The government, which censors information through every medium, always displays Islam in an attractive light—even publishing the names of Christians or people of other faiths who convert to Islam. There are financial and other enticements for non-Muslims to convert—and for Muslims to continue following Islam. Listen as Fred and Karen share the story of a Muslim entering the house of a friend and seeing a Bible; the story illustrates the strong resistance Malay Muslims have toward anything Christian. Pray for God to move in the hearts of Malay Muslims, revealing himself in dreams and visions to them. Pray against the spirit of fear that has fallen on many within the church in Brunei. You may even want to book a plane ticket to go personally to pray on the ground in Brunei. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the VOM Radio podcast.

In this powerful kickoff to Season 18 of the Made For This podcast, Jennie Allen sits down with Josh Youssef, President of Help The Persecuted, to discuss the unimaginable challenges faced by persecuted Christians across the Middle East. Together, they dive into the realities of faith under fire, sharing stories of believers who continue to stand strong despite suffering for their faith. Joining them is a pastor who shares his first hand account and experience of living in the Middle East who could flee, but chooses to stay to share the good news of the Gospel. This episode is an eye-opening invitation to not only learn about the persecution many Christians face but also take action to support and uplift the global church. Don't miss this important conversation. HELPFUL LINKS: Join the newsletter | Sign up for texts from Jennie and team Learn more about Help The Persecuted and how to pray and partner! Join the Global Gathering of the Church on March 1st! CONNECT ON SOCIALS: Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest