Hussain* is from Lebanon and studied Islamic law, even getting a master’s degree in Shia Islamic studies. But then war broke out in Lebanon, and he had to move to another country in the Middle East.
Growing doubts
While away from his home, Hussein started to feel like some things in Islamic history and the Quran didn’t quite add up; he had found contradictions and no longer felt confident in what he believed. He began looking for something different. He discovered the Arab World Media website and started talking with Nada*, one of the digital responders. Hussein was really interested in Christianity because he felt that Christians had a special peace and sense of security.
Nada gave him the gospel of Matthew to read. When Hussein read Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, he was amazed! As someone who knew Shia Islam well, he compared Jesus’ teachings to the sayings of Ali (a significant figure in Shia Islam). Hussein realised that Jesus’ teachings were even more powerful, wise and caring, especially towards the weak.
Letting a friend in on the discovery
Hussein shared what he was discovering about Jesus in the Bible with his friend Mohammed*, who was also from Lebanon. Mohammed started reading and talking with Nada. Both of them wanted to find the truth about Jesus directly from the Bible, instead of just relying on what they’d learned about him in Islam.
After a few weeks of reading and talking with Nada, Mohammed became convinced that Jesus is the only one who can save us and is truly the Son of God. In early November 2024, Mohammed decided to follow Jesus. The very next day, Hussein did the same thing!
The Truth spreads
Nada continued to help them learn and grow in their new faith. Nada also connected them with some local Christians, who were excited to meet them. Hussein also started sharing his new beliefs with his friend Haniyeh* back in Lebanon. She said she was ready to learn more, and she’s now also in contact with Nada.
Finally, local fellowship
Hussein and Mohammed met with local Christians for the first time. Everyone said it was an incredible meeting that lasted almost a whole day and night! They discussed important Christian ideas like the Trinity and who Jesus is, as well as practices like baptism, fasting and prayer. Hussein and Mohammed asked many questions and prayed with their new friends before returning home.
In December, after the war in Lebanon ended, Hussein and Mohammed went back home. They are now trying to follow Jesus in their old communities.
*Names changed for security reasons.
Source: Arab World Media
