In many ways, we are currently overburdened with news about the conflict in Iran, what it might mean for the future of the globe, as well as potential conflicts in other nations.
These are all valid concerns as well as the day to day concerns of the cost of goods, gas, etc. However, at this point, it may be helpful to turn our attention to someone who has studied and lived in that nation for quite some time.
Phil Hopkins organizes the Southwestern US track for the Evangelical Missiological Society and teaches at Gateway Seminary. I found this article of his helpful in drawing out some of the history of the Iranian church, its relationship to different political systems and leaders, as well as how the interference of different powers has affected the church’s relationship to the broader society. As things evolve on the ground, it would serve us well to learn from people who have been studying and engaged in this nation at deeper levels for a longer stretch of time. They can help us build a historically and contextually engaged missiology, as we listen for how God might be moving in Iran in these days.
Article Link: https://thegateway.press/persecution-and-protection-of-iranian-christians/
