The rapid growth of the church in Iran is momentous. The impact is already being felt in Iran itself and in other countries in the region.  

Why not pause and give thanks for the growth God is giving?  

This growth brings challenges that face any new Christian movement such as ensuring good order, accountability, and orthodoxy. In Iran, though, these normal trials of growth are exacerbated by two other factors.  

The most obvious is the government’s hostility. Every day, these new Christians face the threat of arrest, abuse, and imprisonment; and, as apostates from Islam, the risk of execution is real. Due to the long reach of the state, day-to-day living is also more difficult for Christians. Accessing education and employment can be especially problematic. Today, these threats are further heightened as the government increasingly cracks down on dissent in any form.  

The other trial that rapid church growth faces is the influence of the Islamic culture. Many new Christians were previously Muslim, and, whether they were devout or nominal, their mindsets and habits have been shaped by Islamic teachings and culture.  

Church leaders need wisdom and tenacity as they gently but firmly teach new believers to think, act, and speak in a God-honoring way, and to understand what it means to be a local expression of the body of Christ.