Kim, Graham, and Uncle Sam
Christianity Today had an interesting article this week on recent changes on US diplomatic policy towards North Korea and Franklin Graham's decision to preach there last August.
"The United States removed North Korea from its list of state sponsors of terrorism in October, but observers say Christians still have much to fear from its government.
"'As long as the Kim Jong Il regime and its successors remain in control, [North Korea] is going to be a brutally repressive country,' said Bruce Klingner, a senior research fellow at The Heritage Foundation and former North Korea analyst for the CIA. 'It's going to continue to be a dismal future for Christians.'
The Center for the Study of Global Christianity estimates that there are 467,894 Christians in North Korea and 10,592 Christian martyrs each year. Open Doors ministry lists the country as the world's worst religious persecutor.
Observers say that even the death of Kim Jong Il, rumored to be in poor health, may not improve conditions.
"Our contacts are telling us that in the short term, it doesn't matter," said Todd Nettleton, spokesman for Voice of the Martyrs. 'The people who brought Kim Jong Il to the throne are not going to suddenly decide, 'Hey, let's let Christians worship freely.'"
Click here to read the rest of the article.
My question is, do you believe the U.S. diplomatic shift and Graham visit to North Korea will really help Christians there? Give us your opinion on the poll below and tell us why by leaving a comment.
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3 comments:
God can use anything and anyone to fulfill His purposes. The problem is that we decide so often what the solution is and do it without listening for God's voice. We can be tempted to compromise and not bring up what is happening to the believers so that we can have access to the country. It feels like the behaviour of the North Koreans is being legitimized. Eunice
If you can talk there is a doorway and the "Foot" in that doorway is His in the guise of Franklin Graham. Praise God, pray and watch!
Not sure I share your enthusiasm, Ginny. Not every door should be walked through. But thanks for the comment.
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