How did you become a Christian?
I became a Christian four years ago during Ramadan. I asked myself why I was fasting. It was just me and Google, so I asked Google if there were other religions that fast. The answer was that Christians also fast, but in a different way.
I kept reading on Google. In particular, a Christian Egyptian website was very helpful and gave me many answers. I continued my search for eight months, just me and my phone. I started reading the Bible.
One of my friends was an atheist, and he helped me find other Christians who helped me grow in my faith. I asked them many questions.
What did you find in the Bible?
That Jesus is caring. Even if you are not perfect, He is there for you with open arms. That's where I find peace, and I know that's what I need in my life.
While I was reading, I had a dream where I saw myself in the desert. I saw a picture of Jesus, where he called to me: ’Don't be afraid, just come and receive me.’ The next morning, I wrote to the Christians that now was the time for me to believe in Jesus and be baptized.
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Why do we hear about Jesus appearing to many people in the Middle East through dreams, while we rarely hear about it in the West?
In the West, it's easy to hear about Jesus, but in Libya and other Arab countries, it can be downright risky. That's why I believe it's God's way of showing his love to people. In closed countries, he can reach people in dreams.
What was it like to be Muslim?
As a Muslim, one is always afraid. You follow rules because you have to, and that's the difference compared to the Christian faith. In Islam, you have to pray or do this or that, otherwise you'll go to hell. In Christianity, you don't pray because it's a requirement, but because you love God. I find the difference beautiful, that God is loving and caring. No matter what, He will be there for you.
The Arab Barometer poll showed in 2019 that 35.5 % of young Libyans between 19-29 years old identified as non-religious. Can you recognize the picture?
Yes, I think that's true. There are definitely more and more young people leaving Islam. But young people can't say it out loud. Most of my friends weren't Muslim, but they didn't dare to talk about their choice, as it could be risky.
Why are young people dissatisfied with Islam?
Because they want the freedom to live their lives – that's why. The easiest way to leave Islam is by becoming an atheist. Young people say, ’Then I can drink, I can do whatever I want.’ I understand them, because they have never experienced God's love. Therefore, they don't understand how one can be free in God as a Christian and live a pure life in the knowledge that God will always love you.
If Islamic leaders threaten young Muslims with hell if they sin, it creates a backlash. Then they will rebel and say, ’Watch me do it.’ But young people drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or having sex with different partners is a reaction showing they don't believe in Islam.
Media evangelism, faith education, and self-help assistance
Danish Europe Mission's improvers and givers ensure that the message of God's love in Jesus is conveyed in Libya and through digital platforms, physical meetings, and faith education. Additionally, Christians in situations of persecution receive counseling, and financially needy convert Christians receive job training so they can become self-sufficient.
