Faith Facts

• The Churches of Christ rely on the “Churches of Christ in the United States” directory for their closest approach to a census, as there is no centralized data system.
• Collaborative organizations, including Heritage21, 21st Century Christian, Abilene Christian University’s Siburt Institute, and The Christian Chronicle formed the Church Research Council to carry out this vital research.
• The current survey, developed by sociologist Suzie Macaluso, aims to shed light on the health, identity, and unity of these congregations nationwide.

Accurate records help us understand how our faith community is growing, changing, and where we are called to strengthen bonds of fellowship.

These efforts affirm that every congregation, regardless of size or background, contributes to the greater mission of Christ’s church in America.

“I can go to a Church of Christ in any state and know pretty much what to expect,” Macaluso said. “But they are still radically different in terms of what they emphasize in theology and the lines they draw.”

Our diversity reflects the challenges and blessings wrought by autonomy and varying traditions, just as Paul and early church leaders grappled with unity among believers from different backgrounds.

As we strive for unity in Christ, gathering this information in love can help us answer the essential question: Who are we, as His body?

Let us participate with prayerful hearts, trusting that wise stewardship of information honors God and serves future generations of believers.

Read more at The Christian Chronicle

Faith Facts

• Iran’s Church is rapidly growing despite persecution.
• Protests have escalated, leading to violence and government crackdowns.
• Scripture assures that no nation is beyond God’s authority or redemption.

As unrest in Iran intensifies, faithful Christians worldwide are called to intercede for this nation and its suffering people. The Iranian regime’s crackdowns have brought grief and isolation, but the body of Christ remains strong, worshiping secretly and boldly sharing the Gospel.

International Christian Concern is preparing to support Iranian believers with emergency aid, discipleship, and Bibles as they endure hardship and trust God’s promises.

“I will set My throne in Elam, and destroy her king and officials,” declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 49:38)

In the biblical context, God’s authority extends over Iran, promising both judgment for injustice and future restoration as his Kingdom advances.

“Yet I will restore the fortunes of Elam in days to come,” declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 49:39)

The remarkable perseverance of the Church in Iran is evidence of God’s ongoing work and faithfulness, even in trials. His sovereignty comforts grieving families and strengthens the faithful amid uncertainty, reminding us that redemption follows judgment.

Finding Hope in Scripture

Despite darkness and oppression, God’s light prevails, and His love continues to transform hearts across Iran. We are urged to pray for an end to violence, true justice, healing for grieving families, restored communication, and the strengthening of the Church.

Please lift up Iran’s believers, speak up for their plight, and call for truth to be revealed in every corner. May the Lord guide world leaders and embolden His people to share the message of hope and freedom in Christ.

Read the full report here

Faith Facts

• A network of Christian leaders gathers in Stuttgart to train on Muslim engagement.
• Event brings experienced pastors, theologians, and former Muslims together for practical ministry equipping.
• The focus is on apologetics, polemics, and Christian confidence rooted in biblical faith.

Religious leaders from all over Europe and beyond will meet in Stuttgart to strengthen churches’ ability to reach Muslim communities with the hope of Christ. These gatherings reflect a growing need for clarity, cultural understanding, and practical wisdom as Christian churches respond to society’s changing spiritual landscape.

The event is hosted by the Muslim Ministry Network, which developed out of sustained leadership training and Christian networking across the continent. The diversity of speakers—including pastors, former Muslims, and apologists—represents the broad spectrum of Christian witness to Muslim neighbors.

“From childhood, interaction with Muslims was simply normal life,” said Dr. Emil Shehadeh, founder of the Network.

“Jesus used polemics,” Shehadeh noted, highlighting the scriptural basis for robust, respectful dialogue. According to him, apologetics involves defending the Christian faith, while polemics means lovingly challenging other beliefs for the sake of the gospel.

Believers are encouraged to answer questions with grace and truth, following Christ’s example. As Europe faces new spiritual challenges, Christians are called to engage with courage, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

Stand firm in faith, remain salt and light, and uphold Christian principles as you reach out to your community and beyond.

Read the full article at Christian Daily