For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.
Following the 2011 Arab Spring and the collapse of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime, Libya descended into deep instability, and persecution of Christians intensified sharply. With the collapse of central authority, Islamic extremist groups gained ground, and violence and intimidation targeting Christians became increasingly common. As a result, indigenous Christians have all but disappeared, with only around 150 believed to remain. Even they are unable to openly practice their faith, surviving by gathering quietly for worship in their homes.
Christianity in Libya dates back to the early church and is even referenced in the Bible through figures such as Simon of Cyrene. However, after the Islamic conquests, it gradually declined and has now nearly vanished. Of Libya’s population of roughly seven million, the vast majority are Muslim. While some Christians remain among foreign workers, religious freedom is extremely limited.
In 2015, militants from Islamic State shocked the world by carrying out mass executions of Egyptian Coptic and Ethiopian Christians. Since then, serious human rights abuses—including kidnappings, forced labor, and even the re-emergence of slave markets—have continued. It is estimated that up to 90% of Christians fled the country in the years following the Arab Spring.
Today, Libya remains deeply divided, with power fragmented among competing militias. For Christians, practicing their faith openly is virtually impossible. Even expressing interest in attending church online can lead to threats, reflecting the intense social pressure they face. Non-Islamic religions are openly rejected, and Libyans who convert to Christianity or distribute related materials risk imprisonment, abuse, or even death sentences.
As of 2025, at least 13 indigenous Christians are reportedly in prison, some sentenced to death for refusing to renounce their faith. In a context where even obtaining a Bible is difficult, the small number of remaining believers continue to practice their faith in extreme secrecy.
At the same time, there are signs that some younger Libyans are becoming less engaged with Islam. However, strong social surveillance and pressure from families and communities mean that most still maintain a nominal Muslim identity. There are also reports of individuals who experienced greater freedom abroad being reported for expressing different views online, or warned of punishment upon returning home—highlighting how deeply restricted freedom of religion remains in practice. (Source: Gospel Prayer News, Edited version)
Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. (Matthew 18:19–20,NIV)
God, we confess that where two or three gather in the name of Jesus, You are there among them. Open the eyes of the small remnant of the church in Libya to see that You are with them. Lord, in a land where public expressions of faith are not possible, bless our brothers and sisters, fellow members of the same body, who refuse to renounce their faith in Christ and choose to endure suffering. Grant them courage and boldness in their faith. As imprisoned Christians and those who worship in secret lift their prayers together to the Father in heaven, may Your kingdom come and Your church be revived throughout the land of Libya.
Prayer 24·365
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