15/01/2026
Mansour Khajehpour and his wife, Nahid Sepehri—former leaders in a Tehran Presbyterian church—understand the cost of faith under Iran’s Islamic regime. Arrested and imprisoned in 1996 during a wave of persecution against Christian leaders, they were forced to flee Iran after death threats and the murder of a close Christian friend. Now living in the Seattle area, they continue to serve the Iranian church through Crossroads at Lake Stevens and the Iranian Bible Society. As nationwide protests erupt across all 31 provinces, Iranian Christians—estimated at nearly one million—are increasingly voicing solidarity with demonstrators, marking a shift from their historic avoidance of political involvement. Many believers describe this moment as a “theology of resistance,” fueled by widespread suffering, economic collapse, and a deep longing for justice and freedom.
The regime’s response has been brutal, with thousands reportedly killed, internet blackouts imposed, and widespread arrests, placing Christians at heightened risk of persecution and imprisonment. Despite this, Iranian churches and Christian media—both inside and outside the country—are speaking more boldly, praying openly for freedom, accountability, and even the fall of the regime. Ministry leaders report renewed spiritual hunger amid the unrest, with Iranians encountering Jesus through dreams, visions, and gospel conversations in the streets. While geopolitical tensions, foreign pressure, and internal crackdowns raise fears of darker days ahead, many believers hold onto hope—believing that true freedom for Iran will ultimately come not only through political change, but through Christ, who alone can heal the nation’s deepest wounds.
Heavenly Father, we lift up the people of Iran to You—those crying out for justice, those risking their lives in the streets, and those suffering quietly under oppression. Bring an end to brutality, bloodshed, and fear, and protect innocent lives caught in the violence. We ask that communication be restored, that information blackouts be lifted, and that what is hidden would come into the light. Strengthen Your Church in Iran—make them unified, fearless, and filled with unshakable hope. Guard believers who are at increased risk, sustain those imprisoned for their faith, and unite Your people with courage, wisdom, and compassion. Comfort families who grieve, restore hope where despair has drained hearts numb, and provide daily needs amid economic collapse, energy shortages, and uncertainty. Let truth prevail over lies, light overcome darkness, and Your peace rule in the midst of turmoil. We pray against a lingering spirit of the Prince of Persia (Daniel 10) that causes spiritual warfare, opposition against Israel, and tries to hinder the revelation of who YOU ARE! We ask that You guide world leaders with discernment and above all, draw the people of Iran to Yourself, that lasting freedom, healing, and renewal would be found in You alone. In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.
“ Then he said to me, “Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days, but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I was left there with the kings of Persia, and came to make you understand what is to happen to your people in the latter days. For the vision is for days yet to come.” (Daniel 10:12-14)
Source: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2026/01/iran-protest-christians-churches-speaking-out/
