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Why Israel? in Pakistan
The book Why Israel? By Rev. W.J.J. Glashouwer is currently being translated into Urdu in Pakistan, in partnership with local ministries. These ministries are passionate disciples of the Lord Jesus who are devoted to serving the persecuted Church in Pakistan. We hope to have 1000 copies of the book printed in the summer, for distribution to churches throughout the country. We are discussing with both partner ministries the possibility of a teaching and training campaign in Pakistan in either late 2010 or early 2011.
Pakistan is an Islamic State, and 97% of its population is Muslim. Of the total population of 169 million in Pakistan, approximately 3.6 million are Christians. The largest Christian communities are located in the main cities Lahore, Karachi and Faisalabad.
According to Barnabas Fund (www.barnabasfund.org):
Tradition traces the beginnings of Christianity in Pakistan to the mission work of the apostle Thomas, and some churches in Ancient India have a long history. The subsequent Islamic conquest eliminated Christianity in the region for several hundred years. However a significant Christian population has grown over the last couple of centuries and believers now number some 3.6 million people in a population of 160 million, the largest minority group in Pakistan ahead of Hindus, Baha’i and others.
In 1956 Pakistan became an Islamic Republic (the country is 96% Muslim), and since 1991 policy has increasingly been influenced by an Islamist minority. Christians are under heavy pressure in Pakistan. It is estimated that 75% of Christians are marginalised in the lowest strata of society, working in brick-kilns, as sweepers, sewer cleaners or labourers.
It is of vital importance that Christians in Pakistan receive solid, Bible/based teaching regarding Godīs purposes with Israel and the Jewish people, the church and the nations.
Please pray for the local ministries as they work to bring this project to fruition.