Several Christians are currently in prison, and one of them, Dia Balao, is sentenced to death for leaving Islam. There are several reports of parents turning their children in to authorities and Islamic groups if they become Christians. During this time, new believers even have to be careful about meeting physically.
Since the removal of longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi from power in 2011, the two governments have struggled for power in Libya. In this tense situation, with a lack of legitimate authorities, a power vacuum is emerging in which extremist, militant Salafist movements can play a major role.
In both the eastern and western parts of the country, police and intelligence tasks are partially delegated to such groups.
Yet more and more people want to hear about Jesus. It may sound like a paradox that interest in the Christian faith is increasing at a time when the consequences of becoming a Christian can be great.
But especially among young people in Libya, there is a strong backlash against Islam. In 2019, the Arab Baromoter survey showed that as many as 35.5 % of 18-29 year olds in Libya identify as non-religious.
When young people hear an imam say that shorts and modern hairstyles are forbidden, that women are worth less than men and that polygamy is allowed, many think that the imams live on another planet, as our partner Ali puts it. He leads a small team, of which the Danish European Mission is a part, that helps the small convert church in Libya.
Read about the situation of the church in Libya...
Through the team's work, new believers are trained in the Christian faith. Likewise, converted Christians under pressure receive spiritual care and counseling in their specific situation. Together with linguists, the team also works to make the message of the Bible accessible in Libya. It is possible to support this work financially.
Please pray for the emerging convert church in Libya and for the new Christians who courageously believe in Jesus. Thank you for praying for the country that is characterized by instability and uncertainty.
