Jesus is Good”: 80 Iranian Muslims Embrace Christianity and Receive Baptism in a Powerful Act of Faith
In a remarkable testament to faith and courage, 80 former Muslims from Iran have openly declared their commitment to Christianity, accepting Jesus as their Savior and receiving baptism. This milestone is deeply moving, considering the significant challenges faced by converts in Iran, where religious conversion from Islam is met with serious risks, including social ostracization and potential legal consequences. These courageous individuals, however, were undeterred, driven by a newfound sense of peace, purpose, and spiritual fulfillment found in the teachings of Jesus.
The collective baptism ceremony took place in a secure location, providing these new believers with a chance to publicly affirm their faith while surrounded by a supportive Christian community. As they shared personal testimonies, their stories painted a vivid picture of resilience, hope, and transformation.
### A Journey of Faith: From Curiosity to Conversion
For many of the 80 Iranian converts, the journey to Christianity was a deeply personal, often solitary experience. In Iran, where Islam is the predominant religion, resources on Christianity are limited, and access to churches or Christian materials is restricted. Despite these obstacles, curiosity about Christianity had gradually drawn each of them to explore the teachings of Jesus.
Some converts shared that their journey began through encounters with Christian materials on social media or by reading digital copies of the Bible, often accessed through secure networks to avoid detection. Others spoke of interactions with Christian friends or missionaries who helped introduce them to the tenets of Christianity. Many described how the message of God’s unconditional love, forgiveness, and grace resonated with them in ways that felt uniquely transformative, contrasting with their previous experiences of faith.
One of the newly baptized, named Ali (name changed for security reasons), shared his story: “I was searching for a sense of peace and understanding that I could not find anywhere else. When I started reading the words of Jesus, it was like something awakened inside of me. The message of love and compassion was something I had never experienced before. Accepting Jesus brought me a sense of purpose and love that I had been longing for.”
### The Challenges of Conversion in Iran
Conversion from Islam to Christianity in Iran is not only discouraged but often actively suppressed. Apostasy, or the abandonment of Islam, can result in severe repercussions under Iran’s laws, including imprisonment and, in rare cases, capital punishment. In addition to legal challenges, new Christians face societal backlash, losing friendships, jobs, and even family support upon converting.
Despite these formidable risks, these 80 individuals felt compelled to follow the call of Jesus. For them, the decision to embrace Christianity was not one taken lightly but one based on a profound spiritual conviction. Many of these new believers had to practice their faith in secrecy, attending underground churches, often hidden in private homes, where they could meet with other Christians, worship, and grow in their understanding of the Gospel.
One woman, named Lila (name changed for protection), recounted her struggles: “I knew I had to make a difficult choice, one that would change my life. But I could not deny the truth of what I had experienced. Knowing Jesus brought me a joy and peace I never imagined possible. Even though I was afraid of what might happen, I felt that God was with me and that He would never abandon me.”
### A Moment of Celebration and Solidarity
The baptism ceremony provided a long-awaited moment of public declaration and unity for these new Christians. Taking place in a secure, undisclosed location outside of Iran, the event was attended by other members of the Christian community who offered support, prayers, and encouragement. Leaders within the congregation shared in the joy of this special day, welcoming each convert into the Christian family and underscoring the importance of their brave decision to follow Christ.
One of the pastors officiating the baptism shared a message of encouragement, reminding the converts that their journey would not be easy but that their faith would be strengthened through fellowship, prayer, and community. “Today, you are part of a much larger family, one that spans the globe,” he said. “We may be separated by borders, but we are united in Christ. He is with you every step of the way, and so are we.”
The ceremony included worship songs, prayers, and a message on the significance of baptism as a declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. As each individual was baptized, they emerged from the water to applause and joyful expressions of welcome. Many were visibly moved, with tears of joy, gratitude, and relief evident among the group. The sense of solidarity and love in the gathering underscored the power of faith to unite people from different backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences.
### The Growing Christian Movement in Iran
In recent years, the number of Christian converts in Iran has been steadily rising, despite the country’s strict laws on religious conversion. According to reports from international religious freedom organizations, the underground church in Iran has grown rapidly, as many Iranians seek a personal and transformative relationship with Jesus. This trend highlights the widespread spiritual search happening within the country and the desire for religious freedom and personal connection with God.
The growth of Christianity in Iran has not gone unnoticed by authorities. In response, government crackdowns have intensified, targeting underground churches, arresting pastors, and confiscating Christian materials. Despite this, reports from inside the country indicate that many continue to turn to Christianity, finding in it a source of strength and hope amid life’s challenges.
For these 80 new believers, their journey may be challenging, but their commitment to their faith remains steadfast. Their testimonies reflect the power of personal transformation, the courage to seek truth, and the hope found in Jesus’ message of love and redemption.
### The Impact of “Jesus is Good” in Lives Transformed
The phrase “Jesus is Good,” resonates deeply with these new believers, encapsulating the essence of their spiritual journey and newfound relationship with God. They have experienced firsthand the healing, love, and compassion that Jesus offers, as well as the profound change that faith can bring to one’s life. For many, “Jesus is Good” is not only a declaration but a reminder of the peace and love that they now hold in their hearts.
The message of Jesus’ goodness has become a source of encouragement for those who are navigating their new faith under difficult circumstances. As one convert explained, “Accepting Jesus does not mean life will be easy, but it means I am not alone. He is with me, guiding me, loving me, and helping me through every challenge. Jesus is truly good, and I am so grateful to be His follower.”
### Moving Forward in Faith
As these 80 Iranian converts return to their lives, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and a deep commitment to live out their faith, regardless of the obstacles they may face. They know that their path will not be without challenges, but they draw strength from the words of Jesus and the support of their Christian community. Their bravery serves as a source of inspiration to believers around the world, exemplifying the transformative power of faith and the courage it takes to stand by one’s beliefs.
Their baptism marks the beginning of a new chapter, filled with both trials and blessings. Many of these converts are already finding ways to share their faith quietly within their communities, using discretion but driven by a desire to share the love and truth they have found in Jesus. For them, faith is no longer a private journey but a shared mission to spread hope, love, and encouragement to those around them.
### A Message to the Global Christian Community
As we celebrate this significant milestone in the lives of these 80 new believers, let us also remember the many Christians around the world who face persecution for their faith. Their stories remind us of the value of religious freedom and the courage it takes to stand firm in one’s beliefs. We are called to support and pray for our brothers and sisters in faith, especially those who must practice their beliefs in secrecy and at great personal risk.
This baptism ceremony stands as a powerful symbol of hope, faith, and resilience in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that God’s love transcends borders, languages, and cultures, reaching even the most unexpected places and bringing light to those who seek Him. Today, as we reflect on the courage of these 80 Iranian Christians, let us hold fast to the truth that, indeed, “Jesus is Good,” and that His love is a force that knows no bounds.
