A recent news item reports that Iran’s Supreme Court has charged an evangelical preacher with apostasy, and could be executed if he doesn’t recant his beliefs. Human rights groups say apostasy isn’t even codified in Iranian law. Yousef Nadarkhani converted to “Christianity” as a teenager, and has converted an unknown number of people in Iran. While the Iranian regime doesn’t look favorably on personal conversion from Islam, Nadarkhani’s converting others is what really has set this chain of events into motion. Those who know Nadarkhani say he is not likely to recant, and if he doesn’t, his fate is unclear.
While this individual is not a New Testament Christian, you can’t help but admire his zeal and conviction for what he believes. His actions show not only his sincerity, but that there are hearts that can be changed, even under oppressive governments and the most difficult of situations. If there are those willing to listen to his message, would there not also be good and honest hearts willing to listen to the complete truth of the Gospel? As Jesus said, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32).
Beyond all this, such reports should cause us to pause and ask ourselves about our faith and our commitment to the truth. Just how much of an influence does the Gospel make in our lives? While we may wonder about the direction our nation is headed, we still have the freedom to believe, live and teach others the message of salvation. What impact does it make in daily living with the liberties we have? Do we take faith in Christ seriously, so that it is reflected in what we say and do? Do others see Christ living in us? Are we seeking opportunities to tell others the truth that saves? We are not being persecuted. We are not being arrested for being New Testament Christians. No one has threatened to execute us for what we believe, or demanded we deny our faith to spare our physical lives.
Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16). He also said, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28). If one finds it difficult to live the Christian life in a time of ease, what would be the measure of one’s commitment and faith in a time of distress and persecution?
We are privileged to live as we do, and blessed to know the truth as we do. The circumstances Yousef Nadarkhani faces should cause each of us to examine just how important Christ is to us. Is Jesus Christ important enough for us to live for Him and His will every day? “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).
