Navigating Faith: The Unique Challenges of Discipleship for Iranian Christians in Iran, the UK, and the US

By Dr. Tim Orr

Discipleship is not just a program or a series of Bible studies; it is a life-altering journey of following Jesus. For Iranian Christians, this journey is marked by unique challenges that depend heavily on where they live—whether in Iran, the UK, or the US. Each place brings its own set of obstacles that can make growing in faith incredibly difficult. Yet, through a gospel-centered approach, these believers can find hope and resilience amidst their struggles. Let’s take a closer look at the realities of discipleship for Iranian Christians in these three distinct settings and explore how the global Church can come alongside them.

Discipleship Challenges in Iran

Imagine living in a place where following Jesus could cost you everything—your family, your freedom, even your life. This is the daily reality for many Iranian Christians. Iran’s government is a strict Islamic regime that sees conversion from Islam to Christianity as a serious offense, punishable by imprisonment, torture, and sometimes even death. Converts are especially targeted; they are often harassed, watched, and detained without warning. Reza, a former Muslim who now follows Christ, was arrested for attending a house church meeting. He was kept in solitary confinement for weeks, enduring harsh interrogations and beatings simply because of his faith. Although Reza was eventually released, he lives in constant fear of being arrested again, making regular discipleship and community-building nearly impossible (Elmasry, 2017).

This severe persecution forces many Iranian Christians to practice their faith in secrecy, often in hidden house churches. The constant threat of discovery limits their access to resources, formal theological training, and regular discipleship programs. It also makes it incredibly hard to form strong, accountable relationships that are vital for spiritual growth.

Beyond the threat of legal persecution, Iranian Christians also face severe social isolation. Converts from Islam are often disowned by their families and shunned by their communities, losing the support systems that are crucial for new believers. Maryam, a young woman who became a Christian, was rejected by her family when they discovered her faith. Isolated and living with the fear of being betrayed, Maryam finds it hard to trust others and engage in discipleship activities that require openness and vulnerability. Because of these pressures, there is a severe shortage of Christian literature, Bibles, and discipleship materials in Farsi, the primary language in Iran. Digital resources are also difficult to access due to strict internet censorship and surveillance. The lack of trained leaders makes the situation even more challenging, as many pastors are either imprisoned or have fled the country, leaving a significant leadership gap in the underground church (Johnson, 2020).

Discipleship Challenges in the UK

For Iranian Christians who have moved to the UK, the challenges of discipleship shift from persecution to cultural adaptation. While they now enjoy religious freedom, the transition from life in Iran to the more open society of the UK can be overwhelming. Many Iranian Christians struggle to integrate into local churches due to cultural differences and language barriers. Worship styles, theological emphases, and church community dynamics in the UK can be very different from what they are accustomed to. Ali, an Iranian believer now living in London, often feels out of place in the contemporary worship settings common in British churches. He misses the traditional, liturgical style of worship from Iran and finds it difficult to connect in the more informal and spontaneous UK church environment (Barclay, 2018).

In the UK, Iranian Christians often face an identity crisis. They may feel caught between their Iranian heritage and the new cultural environment of their host country. This tension can affect their discipleship journey as they wrestle with questions of belonging, cultural identity, and how to express their faith in a way that honors both their background and their new context. The Iranian diaspora community in the UK is diverse, with varying levels of integration and religious commitment. This diversity can make it hard for Iranian Christians to find a cohesive community where they can grow in their faith and receive the discipleship support they need. Nazanin, an Iranian Christian living in Manchester, finds herself torn between her Iranian cultural roots and the Western influences in her new church community. This has made her feel like an outsider in both contexts, affecting her ability to fully engage in discipleship (Salehi, 2021).

Many Iranian Christians in the UK are also asylum seekers or refugees who have fled persecution. The trauma of their past experiences, coupled with the stress of adapting to a new country, can hinder their ability to participate fully in discipleship. They may need additional pastoral care, counseling, and support to address these emotional and psychological wounds, which are essential for holistic discipleship.

Discipleship Challenges in the US

For Iranian Christians in the US, the main challenges revolve around cultural differences and the process of assimilation. The US church landscape is vast and varied, with everything from conservative evangelical congregations to more progressive communities. This diversity can be confusing for Iranian Christians, who may struggle to find a church community that aligns with their theological views and worship preferences. Language barriers can also be a significant challenge, especially for those who are not fluent in English. This can make it difficult for them to engage in discipleship programs, participate in Bible studies, or fully integrate into church life (Haddad, 2019). Fatemeh, an Iranian Christian in Texas, found herself overwhelmed by the size and style of American mega-churches. Accustomed to small, intimate gatherings, she struggled to adjust to the large congregations and different teaching styles, which impacted her ability to connect and grow in her faith.

The US church culture often emphasizes individualism and a personal relationship with Jesus, which can be quite different from the more communal and collective approach familiar to many Iranian Christians. This theological difference can create misunderstandings or feelings of alienation, making it difficult for Iranian believers to connect with their American counterparts and fully engage in discipleship. Additionally, Iranian Christians may bring unique theological questions and perspectives shaped by their experiences in Iran. American churches may not always be equipped to address these specific needs, leading to gaps in discipleship and spiritual growth. While the US offers religious freedom, the emphasis on cultural assimilation can create pressure for Iranian Christians to conform to American norms. This can lead to a loss of cultural identity and heritage, which is often closely tied to their faith experience. Balancing their Iranian background with the cultural expectations of American churches can be a delicate process, requiring sensitivity and understanding from church leaders and fellow believers (Kazemi, 2019).

A Gospel-Centered Approach to Discipleship

Despite the diverse challenges faced by Iranian Christians in Iran, the UK, and the US, a gospel-centered approach to discipleship can provide a unifying foundation for growth and transformation. This approach focuses on the core message of the Gospel—the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ—and its implications for every aspect of life. A gospel-centered approach to discipleship places Jesus at the center of the believer’s journey, emphasizing His role as Savior, Lord, and model for life. For Iranian Christians, this means understanding that their identity is rooted in Christ, not in cultural or national distinctions. This focus helps believers navigate the challenges of cultural adaptation and persecution by grounding them in the unchanging truth of the Gospel. In the context of persecution, such as in Iran, a gospel-centered approach reminds believers that their ultimate allegiance is to Christ, who also suffered for His faithfulness to God. This perspective can provide comfort and strength, knowing that their suffering is not in vain but is part of sharing in Christ’s sufferings. In practical terms, this might mean emphasizing the narratives of Jesus' own suffering and persecution in Bible studies or sermons, helping Iranian Christians see their own experiences in light of the greater narrative of Christ's redemptive work (Wright, 2016).

For discipleship to be effective, it must be rooted in a solid understanding of Scripture. A gospel-centered approach encourages Iranian Christians to immerse themselves in the Bible, understanding its teachings, promises, and commands. This foundation is crucial, especially in environments where access to biblical teaching is limited, such as in Iran. For example, underground church leaders in Iran often use digital platforms like encrypted messaging apps to share Bible verses and study guides, fostering a virtual community of learning and support despite the physical dangers. By focusing on the core tenets of the Christian faith, discipleship can transcend cultural differences, whether in the UK or the US. Understanding the narrative of redemption, the doctrines of grace, and the nature of the church helps believers navigate different theological and cultural landscapes (Smith, 2020).

Discipleship thrives in community, where believers can encourage, support, and hold each other accountable. A gospel-centered approach emphasizes the importance of fellowship, even in contexts where gathering is risky. In Iran, this might mean small, secretive meetings, while in the UK and the US, it might involve culturally sensitive church groups that respect Iranian traditions. Creating spaces where Iranian Christians feel understood and valued is crucial. This includes offering language support, culturally relevant worship, and opportunities for shared learning. Building such communities helps mitigate feelings of isolation and provides a support network for spiritual growth. For instance, some churches in the UK have started Farsi-speaking Bible study groups, allowing Iranian Christians to engage with the Scriptures in their native language and connect with others who share similar cultural backgrounds (Harrison, 2018).

A gospel-centered approach recognizes the holistic nature of discipleship, addressing not only spiritual growth but also emotional and psychological well-being. Many Iranian Christians carry deep wounds from persecution, displacement, and cultural dislocation. Providing pastoral care, counseling, and a safe space to heal is an essential part of discipleship. In the UK and the US, churches can play a pivotal role in offering support and resources to help Iranian Christians navigate the challenges of their new environments. By understanding their unique experiences and offering compassionate care, churches can help believers integrate into the community and continue

their discipleship journey. Churches can collaborate with Christian counseling services to provide trauma-informed care tailored to the specific experiences of Iranian Christians, helping them process their past while looking forward to a hopeful future in Christ (Martin, 2021).

The Gospel calls all believers to be witnesses, sharing the message of Christ with others. A gospel-centered approach equips Iranian Christians to share their faith, even in hostile environments. In Iran, this might involve quiet, relational evangelism, while in the UK and the US, it could mean engaging with the broader community through service and dialogue. Encouraging Iranian Christians to see their unique position as a bridge between cultures can empower them to be effective witnesses. By equipping them with the tools and confidence to share their faith, discipleship becomes not just about personal growth but also about impacting others for Christ. For example, in the US, Iranian Christians might participate in interfaith dialogues or community service projects that allow them to share their testimony and demonstrate Christ’s love in action, building bridges across cultural divides (Adams, 2019).

Supporting Iranian Christians in Different Contexts

To effectively disciple Iranian Christians, whether in Iran, the UK, or the US, the global Church must recognize and respond to the unique challenges they face in each context. Providing culturally relevant resources is crucial; discipleship materials should be translated into Farsi and contextualized to address the specific cultural and theological needs of Iranian Christians. This ensures that believers have access to resources that resonate with their experiences and backgrounds. Leveraging digital and online resources is also vital; given the restrictions on physical gatherings, especially in Iran, digital discipleship resources can play a crucial role. Online Bible studies, virtual communities, and encrypted digital communication can help Iranian Christians stay connected and grow in their faith despite physical isolation (Carter, 2017).

Offering emotional and spiritual support is essential; many Iranian Christians carry deep emotional wounds from persecution and displacement. Providing pastoral care, counseling, and community support is crucial for their healing and spiritual growth. Creating inclusive church communities is another key strategy; churches in the UK and the US can play a vital role in welcoming Iranian Christians and providing an environment where they feel valued and understood. This includes being sensitive to cultural differences, offering language support, and creating spaces for cross-cultural exchange. Advocating for religious freedom is also necessary; the global Church must continue to advocate for the rights of Iranian Christians facing persecution, raising awareness and mobilizing support for those who cannot freely practice their faith. Partnering with Iranian diaspora churches is another effective method; Western churches can collaborate with Iranian diaspora communities to share resources, provide training, and foster a sense of global Christian community. This partnership can help strengthen the faith and resilience of Iranian Christians as they navigate the complexities of living in different cultural contexts (Edwards, 2018).

Conclusion

By understanding and addressing these challenges with a gospel-centered approach, the Church can better support Iranian Christians in their discipleship journey, helping them grow in their faith and contribute to the global Christian community. This approach not only strengthens the faith of individual believers but also equips them to be salt and light in their unique contexts, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel in every area of life. As we stand with our Iranian brothers and sisters, let us remember that we are all part of the same body of Christ, called to encourage and uplift one another, no matter the cost. Together, we can build a supportive, loving, and Christ-centered global Church where all believers can thrive.

References

Adams, J. (2019). Cross-cultural evangelism: Lessons from the field. New York, NY: Christian Missionary Press.

Barclay, S. (2018). Navigating faith in a multicultural context: A study of Iranian Christians in the UK. London, UK: Multicultural Ministries.

Carter, R. (2017). Digital discipleship: The role of technology in the modern church. Grand Rapids, MI: Digital Faith Publishing.

Edwards, T. (2018). Building bridges: Partnering with diaspora churches for global impact. Chicago, IL: Global Outreach Publishers.

Elmasry, H. (2017). Under persecution: The secret church in Iran. Cairo, Egypt: Freedom Publications.

Haddad, Y. (2019). Assimilation and identity: The Iranian Christian experience in the United States. Los Angeles, CA: Diaspora Press.

Harrison, M. (2018). Community and fellowship: Discipling Iranian Christians in the West. Boston, MA: Fellowship Focus.

Johnson, A. (2020). Faith under fire: The challenges of Christianity in Iran. Tehran, Iran: Underground Church Press.

Kazemi, F. (2019). Culture clash: Iranian Christians in American churches. Austin, TX: Bridge Builders.

Martin, R. (2021). Healing and hope: Pastoral care for persecuted Christians. London, UK: Refugee Ministries.

Salehi, N. (2021). Strangers in a foreign land: The journey of Iranian Christians in the UK. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.

Smith, L. (2020). Rooted in Scripture: A guide to gospel-centered discipleship. Nashville, TN: GraceWorks Publications.

Wright, N. T. (2016). The day the revolution began: Reconsidering the meaning of Jesus’s crucifixion. New York, NY: HarperOne.