Christian Workers Released

Libyan authorities have released an Egyptian national and three other foreigners who were arrested on February 10th in Benghazi for allegedly illegally importing Christian materials. The Egyptian national is now recuperating at home with his wife and two children. To read a previous report regarding the situation, please click here.

"Although he and the others suffered for the sake of the Master's name, they received it with great joy and with an attitude of willingness to suffer for Christ," a VOM contact wrote. "As we update you about this, we would like to thank you so much for your prayers and support...during this last period until all those who were involved in the crisis were released. We pray now for post traumatic relief for the workers who came back and seek direction for the next phase in their lives."

We can be thankful for this encouraging answer to prayer, praising God for the release of these four believers and for sustaining them throughout this difficult trial. Pray that they will continue to rejoice over the opportunities they've received to further develop in the character of our Lord Jesus (James 1:2-4) and serve as a strong witness of His sustaining grace. May He use their testimony to encourage the faith of other believers and to reach all who are earnestly seeking salvation.

  • Country Information

    Population
    7,252,573 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Berber and Arab (97), other (3)

    Religion (%)
    Muslim (96.6), Christian (2.7), Buddhist (0.3), Other (0.2) unafilliated (0.2)

    Leader
    Chairman, Presidential Council, Mohammed Al Menfi (2021)

    Government type
    In transition

    Legal system
    Libya's post-revolution legal system is in flux and driven by state and non-state entities

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Libya

    Pray that converts to Christianity will stand firm, despite the threats of suffering and death.

    Pray that strong and effective Christian resources, including Bibles and other literature, will be available in Libya.

    Pray that Libyan Christians will have a strong desire to lead others to faith in the Lord.

Libya News

  • Imprisonment for Leaving Islam
    A dark hall in a prison
      

    Over three months ago, at least ten Libyan Christians were arrested for converting from Islam to Christianity. Two other believers, one from Nigeria and one from Pakistan, have also been arrested because of their association with these Libyan converts. All twelve arrested believers are being held on charges of proselytism (considered "instigating division" by governing officials) which carry a maximum sentence of death.

  • Christian Convert Sentenced to Death for Apostasy
    Sillhouette of a man looking through a window at a city

    A Libyan appeals court has sentenced a young man to death for converting to Christianity, despite there being no official apostasy laws in the country. The name of the Christian convert, who came to faith in Jesus four years ago, has been withheld for his protection. Though the young believer has faced pressure to recant his belief in Jesus, he refuses to forsake his Christian faith.

  • Threats in the Midst of Renewed Church Growth
    Ruins of Basilica of Justinian
    Christianity was once a predominant influence in Libya, as seen in the Basilica of Justinian.
    Photo: Wikipedia / Hakeem.gadi

    Once an active centre of Christianity during the days of the early church, Libya is now known as an epicentre of persecution that's so extreme, there are few believers today remaining in the country. According to some reports, however, the number of Christ-followers is again starting to grow, despite increasing opposition from governmental leaders and families. For more information, go to our country report.

  • Warnings Against Christmas Celebrations
    Mosque in Ghadames - Photo: Wikipedia / Franzfoto
    Islam is the official religion of Libya.
    Photo: Wikipedia / Franzfoto (cc)

    A recent government campaign against the celebration of Christmas is yet another demonstration of anti-Christian activity orchestrated by the authorities in the North African nation of Libya. A movement to confiscate Christmas decorations from stores was lauded by governing officials on the national news agency. In one city, local police shut down all stores that were selling the seasonal decorations.