Central Asia is comprised of Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The combined population of these countries is 385,314,150 million people.
The people groups of Central Asia are mostly Muslim and have little knowledge of biblical Christianity. They are unaware that the Gospel of Jesus is good news. Sadly, 6,618 Central Asians are dying daily without Christ.
The Central Asian country of Afghanistan is likely the one most people are familiar with these days. For 20 years, Afghan citizens enjoyed freedom from a tyrannical government as they received humanitarian aid and military training from U.S. and allied governments. In August 2021, U.S. and allied troops were pulled out of the country, and the Taliban took control. The result was destabilization of the government, a collapsed economy and residents leaving the country by the millions. These refugees are fleeing to neighboring Central Asian countries and countries all over the world.
But hope is not lost for Central Asia or Afghan people as our amazing God turns bad things into good (Rom. 8:28). This mass exodus has provided opportunities for refugees to hear about Jesus and to experience His love as they are provided for and resettled in less restrictive areas. Oklahoma Baptists serving through the International Mission Board and Send Relief, which is the compassion ministry arm of Southern Baptists, are working hard to provide for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of these and other Central Asians.
Pray for Oklahoma Baptist families who are serving in Central Asia through the International Mission Board. Please pray God would make bold the new believers in Central Asia as they try to live out their faith in adverse and many times dangerous circumstances. Pray God would protect the many refugees all over Central Asia and that they would come to know His truth and love. Pray God would protect and provide for missionaries serving in Central Asia.
Because of the generous giving of Oklahoma Baptists through the Cooperative Program, an amazing array of ministries are supported. This unified giving encourages fellowship with other believers all over the world. Collectively, Oklahoma Baptists are advancing the Gospel together.
Oklahoma Baptists who are serving the Central Asian people groups are featured in the 2023 Missionary Prayer Guide for Oklahoma Baptists. For more information about the Cooperative Program, visit oklahomabaptists.org/cp.
