Christians continue to spread the Gospel in Russia despite anti-evangelism law
The anti-terrorism law that affects evangelism began implementation in Russia last July and several Christians have already been arrested. But despite the challenges, Christians have not refrained from preaching the Gospel.
Sergey Rakhuba, president of Mission Eurasia, said that Christian pastors have been targeted by the law in an attempt to silence Christians.
Forum 18 reported that a Baptist children's camp was raided on July 20, the day the law came into force. The church's pastor, Aleksei Telius, was fined 5,000 rubles. Several other Christian pastors have been arrested and fined since then.
"We will not abandon our Christian brothers and sisters in Russia during this time, especially as there are still incredible opportunities for ministry and evangelism in Russia," Rakhuba told Assist Service.
"In the midst of fines, raids and arrests, I am seeing more clearly than ever how God is at work in Russia -- transforming the country according to His purpose through the witness of faithful Christians," he added.
He noted that the relationship between the West and Russia is growing more tense because of Syria. The Russian government is becoming hostile to outsiders as a result.
On Oct. 1, over 350 young Christian leaders gathered together for the Next Generation Professional Leaders (NGPLI) conference in Perm, Russia. Rakhuba said that the region was previously known for its gulags where thousands Christians were sent to work and die in labor camps.
"How miraculous that, today, this very region is the location of a growing movement of young Christian leaders!" he exclaimed.
On Oct. 15, around 500 young Christian leaders attended a conference in Krasnodar, Russia.
"The young Christian professionals mobilized and equipped by Mission Eurasia represent the fields of business, education, social work, law, healthcare, infrastructure, the arts, and more," Rakhuba noted.
He pointed out that Christians were previously excluded from such vocations but they are now working in very influential professions and they are using their influence to share the Christian worldview.
He said that the new law presents a challenge to young Christians but they are responding with courage, faith and renewed passion for evangelism and ministry.
