How can Christians respond to persecution and defend religious freedom?

Season 4 Episode 49

In this episode of Faith & Clarity, host Mark Turman welcomes Wissam al-Saliby, president of 21Wilberforce, for a rich conversation about God’s heart for religious freedom and the hope that drives advocacy around the world.

Wissam shares his story of faith and calling, shaped by his years in Lebanon and his work at the United Nations in Geneva with the World Evangelical Alliance, where he championed the cause of 600 million evangelical Christians. From training national alliances in religious freedom to equipping leaders across the Middle East in human rights and humanitarian law, Wissam has seen firsthand both the suffering and the steadfast courage of those who follow Christ under pressure.

Together, Mark and Wissam explore how defending freedom of belief is part of God’s greater mission in the world, the biblical vision that grounds that work, and the practical ways churches and individuals can respond. It’s a conversation that invites us to see advocacy not as politics, but as a reflection of God’s love for every person made in his image.

Topics

(00:00): Introduction
(00:37): Reflecting on American history and religious freedom
(02:40): Introducing Wissam al-Saliby
(04:50): Wissam's faith journey and career path
(09:52): The mission of 21Wilberforce
(13:27): Biblical inspiration and real-world challenges
(21:12): Stories of persecution and advocacy
(27:19): Theological foundations of religious freedom
(28:30): Challenges and complexities in religious persecution
(32:54): Global advocacy and local empowerment
(38:19): Hotspots and lesser-known areas of persecution
(44:58): Call to action for churches and believers
(47:52): Conclusion and ways to get involved

Podcast Episode Details

How can Christians respond to persecution and defend religious freedom?

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