In every corner of the world, millions of believers follow Jesus at great cost. The persecuted church is made up of Christians who face pressure, discrimination, and violence because of their faith—yet they remain steadfast in hope. Open Doors’ World Watch List highlights the 50 countries where persecution is most severe, revealing places where the gospel is suppressed and many live in deep spiritual bondage, separated from the hope of Christ.
More than 380 million Christians experience significant persecution, with 310 million in the top 50 countries facing very high or extreme levels of opposition. This year, we commit to praying for the twelve nations where persecution is most intense—not only for believers who suffer, but also for those who persecute them. Scripture calls us to remember those in prison as though we ourselves were suffering (Hebrews 13:3), and Jesus calls us to pray for our enemies, trusting that the same gospel resisted in these places is powerful enough to save.
As we pray, we ask God to strengthen His people, soften hardened hearts, and bring freedom to those bound by fear and deception. Stand with the persecuted church through prayer, awareness, and faithful hope as we ask God to sustain His church and advance the gospel—even in the hardest and darkest places.
A Prayer for Nigeria
God, we grieve with our brothers and sisters in Nigeria who endure such unthinkable violence. Be a strong shield and a rock for those who are displaced; be a comfort to those who grieve the loss of loved ones; restore the hopes of those who have been the victims of sexual violence; pour out Your Spirit upon Nigerian Christians, that they would catch a glimpse of Your work in their hearts and in their lives. Change the hearts of those who attack Christians. Bring peace, O God. It seems like an impossible prayer, but we know You alone can do this. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with You, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Who Is Most Vulnerable to Persecution?
Persecution is most acute in the northern part of Nigeria, where Islamic militants operate with impunity. The situation is highly unstable but also hidden from view for many…
Christians — especially converts from Islam — living in states governed by Islamic law are also at great risk. Anyone suspected of blasphemy or insulting the Prophet Muhammad can be violently opposed and even killed in vigilante mob attacks.
How Can You Pray for Nigeria?
- It seems the violence in northern Nigeria is never-ending. Ask God to bring peace to this country.
- Just this year, tens of thousands of Nigerian Christians were displaced. Pray that God would give them hope and stability.
- Pray that the government of Nigeria would do everything possible to protect people from violence. Ask God to work on the hearts of both officials and those who would inflict violence on His people.