In The Name Of Jesus - Messiah

In The Name Of Jesus - Messiah Some say that Turkmenistan is one of the most restrictive countries in the world. The government has a monopoly on internet access and uses a computer program to search emails for coded words, and to block suspicious messages. According to the latest available statistics, less than five percent of the population is using the internet. Broadcast media is also under strict government control. There are seven state-owned TV and four state-owned radio networks. Though satellite dishes and programming provide an alternative to the state-run media, officials sometimes limit access by removing satellite dishes. Given this highly restrictive system, it is not surprising that independent public activity is not allowed, and virtually every meeting is suspiciously monitored. The “quasi-religious personality cult” style of leadership, established by past presidents, has led the nation into a spirit of obedience. Any group considered deviant, or not showing reverence to the president, will come under enormous pressure. All religious groups are required to be registered with the Council on Religious Affairs; all non-registered religious activity is illegal. According to government records, there are 121 religious organizations and seven religious groups that are registered; of these, 104 are Islamic. Obtaining registration is a long and tedious bureaucratic process which can take years. Closely watched by the government, there are also informers who infiltrate churches to determine if they are doing anything illegal. Christians have to be careful, even amongst each other, about what they say and how they say it. Raids on church services are common, and even registered groups suffer from searches and questioning. But for Muslim Background Believers (MBBs) all of these challenges are exasperated by pressure from their families and community to recant their faith. One With Them Although no Christian bookshops exist in Turkmenistan, Christian radio and television programs have become available via satellite broadcast. Open Doors estimates that today there are around 95,000 Christians in the country. Be One With the young, but growing, church in Turkmenistan praying for believers to have the freedom to openly worship Jesus, the Messiah, without fear or hindrance. And during Ramadan, pray for the Holy Spirit to supernaturally fill Turkmen citizens, who have been indoctrinated with cult teachings, with a hunger for the truth. One With Them CHALLENGE Youth across the Muslim world are a wide-open mission field. Consider giving a gift that can help to produce youth-specific multimedia programs for the internet, radio and satellite TV. Media programs such as these can reach many more young lives with the gospel.  2013.07.31

“… anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.” (Mark 9:41)