The Story of an Imam
I am going to share a true story of a Muslim Imam who came to Christ and is now studying in one of our school branches. Our friend used to be an Imam, a Muslim leader and teacher, in an Islamic country. But beyond teaching Islam, he also led persecution against Christians and churches. His group received permission and support from their government to carry out this persecution, working to destroy churches and leading many pastors to prison. Christian believers and pastors faced intense persecution and pressure in this country.
Our friend had two wives and had children with both. He was living well, leading people in prayer and teaching in the mosque. However, due to war in his country, he was relocated to a neighboring country and appointed by the Islamic Association as an Imam in his new mosque. After moving, he had a dream; a woman who looked like Satan was coming to attack him, so he started reading the Quran’s verses against evil spirits, in hopes this woman would leave him alone. Listen to his experience:
After these dreams, he asked his colleague Imam about the meaning, who warned him that Satan wanted to deceive him from the truth of Islam. However, when the dreams persisted, he decided to ask a Christian about their meaning. They told him, "I don't know, but I can take you to a pastor to ask him." Upon meeting the pastor, our friend realized he was one of the pastors he persecuted from his previous country. The pastor said, “Jesus loves you.” Our friend replied, "How come he loves me, even though I persecuted you personally?” The pastor then shared the story of Saul, who later became the apostle Paul. Listen to him:
Our friend accepted Christ, and three months later he received the believer's baptism. But his decision cost him greatly, after deciding to follow Jesus, his two wives divorced him, took their children, and left. Others tried to kill him, multiple times. He was even attacked by high-speed cars. Listen to him share his experience.
Our friend decided to join our study and learn more about the Christian faith, the Bible, and King Jesus, who saved him. His faith in Jesus cost him everything: his children, his friends, his job. Now, he needs safe shelter so he can minister and serve. Will you pray for his safety? I am praying for God to move him to a different country and obtain asylum through the appropriate channels.
I asked our friend what advice he had for other Muslims, this is what he said:
Wagih Boutrus is an associate pastor at Midtown Baptist Temple and is the Vice President of the Middle East Baptist Seminary in Egypt.
