TBG Partners, Jim and Ines Franklin with
the Executive Director of Elam Ministries, David Yeghnazar 
God at Work
One of the oldest civilizations to transcend the ages is that of the Persians.  Their vibrant, artistic culture is referenced throughout the Bible, and still thrives today in the country of Iran.  These amazing people enriched the world with their cuisine, textiles and even the game of Polo.  However, in recent years they have been virtually cut-off from the outside world due to the strong religious views and practices of Iran's Islamic Shia government.   
 
Since the Islamic revolution, Iran has been considered a closed country.  The authoritarian Islamic practices of their government enables them to rule over their people with an iron fist.  Consequently, many have become disillusioned with their Islamic faith.  This spiritual void has facilitated a Christian revival within the country.  In 1979, it was estimated that there was only 500 Christians from a Muslim background in Iran.  Today there are over 360,000 believers in the nation.
 
We were recently contacted by the Regional Director of Elam Ministries, Cristina Voskian.  Their organization spreads the Gospel throughout Iran, breaking through the spiritual chains of oppression that have enslaved their country, and their people.  She shared that through our support, the message of salvation is permeating the hearts of many in Iran.  Her encouraging interview follows:
   
" For the last 11 years Elam Ministries has been blessed by your TBG partners.  Many continue to support our work through prayer, facilitating connections, and giving financially.  We are deeply grateful for your support.
 
In November 2017, I was privileged to give an update to your TBG partners in SD and OC.  It was a great blessing to connect with new members, and also to see old friends of Elam.
 
One way that TBG partners are sharing the powerful story of Iran's church is through hosting events.  This personalized platform enables their friends to hear powerful testimonies of how Muslims in the Iran region are coming to Christ.  TBG partners, Jim and Ines Franklin, organized one such event on behalf of the Persian-speaking church.  The Elam team was so encouraged by the impact of that luncheon, which has led to many praying for and supporting the church in the Iran region.
     
God is writing a remarkable story for the people and nation of Iran.  The following are three recent, deeply encouraging testimonies that you helped flourish:
  • Mahsa recently attended a discipleship conference for Iranian women, many of whom had experienced profound abuse.  With tears in her eyes she said to one of the leaders, 'I never knew God loved me this much. Thank you!'
     
  • Reza is 38 and a business owner inside Iran.  Despite the risk to his livelihood, he is leading a Bible study in his office.  He has asked for training to better reach and disciple his co-workers.
  • Farshad and Maryam were on the brink of divorce before they found Christ. They have now seen over 100 people come to faith as they share the Gospel with others.
Finally, I want to thank all of your TBG partners in SD and OC who are praying for the church in Iran using the Iran 30 Prayer Guide.  I am sure it is because of your prayers that we are seeing more and more miracles in Iran."  
 
To learn more about the remarkable work that Elam Ministries is doing, please visit their website at www.elam.com.