Top Christian Persecutors: North Korea, Islamic Countries
by Allie Martin
March 14, 2005
(AgapePress) - The communist nation of North Korea once again tops a list of countries where Christians are persecuted for their faith.The 2005 "World Watch List" was complied by Open Doors USA, a ministry which serves the persecuted Church. For the third year in a row, North Korea heads the list because tens of thousands of Christians are currently in North Korean prison camps -- and at least 20 Christians were shot or beaten to death last year while in detention. Nevertheless, says Open Doors president Dr. Carl Moeller, persecution has not curbed church growth in that nation.
"One of the unique paradoxes of persecution, if you will, is that wherever persecution comes, the Church actually grows," Moeller says. "We saw that in the first century when persecution came upon the early believers; that's when the Church took over the [ancient] world. In China we're seeing it; in North Korea we're seeing it, as well."
Saudi Arabia again held the second spot on the list, followed by Vietnam, Laos, and Iran. Five of the top ten nations on the list are dominated by Islam, notes the ministry. Moeller says Islamic countries are becoming increasingly hostile to Christianity.
"Islamic countries, especially those governments that are ruled under the tenets of sharia, or Islamic law, are the most repressing countries against Christianity. But I will say this," he adds, "Christians in those countries are experiencing the hand of God and blessing and growth -- even in the midst of what we would consider horrible conditions."
Those conditions, Moeller explains, often include being thrown into prison, being torn from one's family, losing one's job, or even losing one's life -- simply for following Jesus Christ.
The World Watch List is based on evaluation and testimonies obtained by Open Doors' indigenous contacts and field workers, and from members of the persecuted Church.
Allie Martin, a regular contributor to AgapePress, is a reporter for American Family Radio News, which can be heard online.
