Iran (MNN) – As conflict between Middle East nations and paramilitary groups continues to escalate, we must remember that these hostilities are not new developments.
Iran celebrated the 45th anniversary of the Islamic revolution a few weeks ago. The day included crowds in the streets chanting “Death to Israel” and “Death to America” and other demonstrations.
In a recent conversation with Voice of Martyrs CanadaIran Alive’s Dr. Hormoz Shariat helps us step back and examine the “why” of Iran’s opposition to Israel. He says it is a spiritual battle and should be seen and treated as such.
Photo from the celebration of the Islamic Revolution on February 11, 2015, courtesy of Mostafameraji via Wikimedia Commons.
“Number two is political. The Iranian government needs an enemy – it always has,” Shariat says. “(Iranian governors) need an enemy outside of Iran to occupy the minds of Iranians. »
He refers to “Death to America” and “the great Satan, America”, expressions often repeated in Iran.
(“Death to Israel” is also present)
“For example, during the first (eight) years in Iran after the Islamic Revolution, the government of Iran welcomed a war with Iraq. For eight years they had this war and it really benefited (them). They stabilize (d) themselves. »
Sharia law says there is a gap between Iranians and their government. Many disagree with the regime’s hate-motivated policies.
Iran is ranked ninth on Open Doors’ global watch list.
“I’m a very positive person,” Shariat says. “I look at (the persecution) positive(ly). This is a sign that we are gaining Christians. This is why the Iranian government is afraid of us. They are afraid of Christianity, and they have no other response than violence, except to put them in prison and scare (the Christians).
However, God is working in Iran. Over the past 45 years, hundreds of thousands I turned to Christ. The Joshua Project says the number of evangelical Christians in Iran is increasing 19.6% each year — compared to the global rate of 2.6%.
Now is the time to sincerely pray for Iran! Pray not only for the protection of these believers, but also for their courage. Ask God to act in power and turn the nation toward Christ.
Headshot photo courtesy of Mohsina881018 via Wikimedia Commons.
