SO, YOU WANT TO START A GROUP FOR PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS...
“Remember them in bonds as bound with them, as though mistreated, as you yourselves are also in the same body.” Hebrews 13:3. 
 
Are you called to do this? If you have a burden for the persecuted, you most likely are ready to build a group for prayer. You are ready to share the greatest secret in the body of Christ. You will be fellowshipping with those who fellowship in His suffering. You will be taken to a spiritual place where you most likely have never been. You will see Jesus in His suffering and in His VICTORY! Congratulations on your desire to serve the King of kings by reaching out to His suffering body. The following are some suggestions that have helped me.

Appoint a Leader...Him. You will see people come and go, and some will come and grow. As you see people leave because the reality of persecution is too much for them, don’t take it personally. It’s not about you anyway. Hide behind the cross and let Him shine!!!!

Pray about your burden and receive God’s guidance. Pray that He will send laborers to minister with you. Start with one.

Learn all you can about the persecuted church. The best way to stay up to date is by signing up for the free monthly The Voice of the Martyrs newsletter at www.persecution.com.

Talk about what you are learning. Be a VOICE for those who cannot speak up.

Invite one or two to join you in prayer for the persecuted, and perhaps undertake a project together such as Bibles for Nigeria, Blankets of Love, or an Action Pack.

Be patient. Your group will grow as He sends people in. Let go when someone leaves.

Contact The Voice of the Martyrs to see if a Representative in your area is available to speak at your group.

Keep it simple. You’ll find many ideas on the The Voice of the Martyrs website and the BASIC Ministry Link (www.basicfellowship.com). 

     Sample Group Format: Let Him shine in His victory. Remember, He stood in His victory to watch Stephen prepare for his homecoming!!!! See the beauty and understand the mystery of His suffering body. You are beginning a journey that will take you to a deeper spiritual walk than you could have known or imagined.

Feel free to E-mail me with any questions at jonmik@comcast.net, or call me at 603-692-6099.
We can do this together in His power!

[Contact Micki Merrill]