Iran’s Uprising—and Why Prayer Matters Now

A significant uprising is unfolding in Iran. Across the nation, people are rising with a shared cry for freedom, dignity, and a future beyond fear. As events escalate and information becomes harder to verify, one truth is clear: this is a historic moment—one that calls the global Church to attention and prayer.

For Christians, this moment carries deep spiritual meaning.

Persia in God’s story

Iran—biblical Persia—appears again and again in the Bible at pivotal moments. Cyrus is named by the prophet Isaiah long before his birth. Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, and Mordecai stand faithfully in Persian courts during seasons of upheaval and deliverance. In the New Testament, the Magi from the East—wise men from Persia—are among the first to recognize and worship Jesus as King.

These are not side notes in Scripture. They reveal a pattern: God has repeatedly moved in Persia during times of national shaking.

Dr. Kazemi also points to a powerful but often-forgotten history—that in the centuries following Christ, there were churches in cities throughout the Persian Empire. Though much of this history was erased, he believes God is restoring what was hidden. Even today, despite persecution and great personal risk, underground churches continue to gather—and Iranians are among the fastest-growing people turning to Christianity worldwide.

Scripture speaks to this moment with both gravity and hope:

“I will set my throne in Elam and destroy her king and officials,” declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 49:38)

Dr. Kazemi shares his conviction that this verse points not only to judgment, but to restoration—that God has not abandoned Persia, but intends to rule with truth, justice, and mercy.

A call to intercession

“I think prayer has to be made that the Lord would give those who are persecuted joy above understanding, which He does, and perseverance and be able to see Him beyond and above all things that is going on.”
— Dr. Mohsen Kazemi, on 100 Huntley Street, urging prayer for Iran’s persecuted church amid revival.

Dr. Kazemi reminds us that prayer and intercession are the most powerful weapons we have as Christians. As Scripture says, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12). In moments of national upheaval and spiritual shaking, believers are called to stand as intercessors—lifting others up before the Lord and trusting Him to act.

How to pray for Iran

• Pray for believers across Iran, that churches—seen and unseen—would be strengthened and protected
• Pray for courage and faith, that those seeking Jesus would follow Him boldly
• Pray for hearts to be opened to the truth of the Gospel
• Pray for peace and justice, that God’s purposes would prevail
• Pray that Persia would remember its spiritual heritage and turn again to the Lord

Watch the interview

A portion of this conversation with Dr. Kazemi will broadcast on 100 Huntley Street on Friday, January 16, 2026.
The full interview is available now on YouTube, where he shares more of his testimony, biblical insight, and a heartfelt call to prayer for Iran:

You don’t have to carry this alone

If the situation in Iran—or your own circumstances—feel heavy, Crossroads’ prayer line is here for you. Our Prayer Partners are available 24/7 to listen and pray with you, offering compassionate and confidential support.

📞 Call Crossroads’ prayer line anytime: 1-866-273-4444

Iran’s story is still unfolding.

And hope—rooted in Scripture—is rising once again in Persia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Persia, Iran, and Elam?

These names refer to the same geographic region, described using different terms across history and Scripture.

• Persia is the ancient biblical and historical name for the land known today as Iran. Most Old Testament references—especially in books like Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, and Isaiah—use the name Persia.
• Iran is the modern name of the nation, officially adopted in 1935.
• Elam was an ancient kingdom located within what is now southwestern Iran and is frequently mentioned in Scripture, including by the prophet Jeremiah.

Though the names differ, they all point to the same land—a place God repeatedly addresses and uses throughout the Bible.

Why does Persia matter so much in the Bible?

Persia plays a unique and repeated role in God’s redemptive story. Scripture shows God working through Persian kings and leaders at critical moments in Israel’s history.

• Cyrus the Great, a Persian king, was named by the prophet Isaiah nearly 150 years before his birth and used by God to free the Jewish exiles (Isaiah 44–45).
• Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, and Mordecai all lived and served within the Persian Empire, influencing decisions that affected God’s people.
• Persia was a place where God demonstrated His sovereignty over nations, rulers, and history itself.

This repeated biblical emphasis reminds us that Persia has never been outside God’s plan.

Who were the Magi, and why does their connection to Persia matter?

The Magi, often called the “wise men,” were scholars and astronomers from the East—widely understood to be from Persia. They were among the first Gentiles to recognize Jesus as King and worship Him (Matthew 2).

Their presence at Jesus’ birth highlights Persia’s early connection to the Gospel and points to God’s heart for all nations, not just Israel.

What does Jeremiah 49:38 mean when it talks about Elam?

Jeremiah 49:38 says, “I will set my throne in Elam,” declares the Lord.

Dr. Kazemi shared his belief that this verse points beyond judgment to God’s authority and restoration. It speaks of God establishing His rule—His justice, truth, and mercy—over the region. For many believers, this verse fuels prayer and hope for spiritual renewal in Iran today.

Is Christianity new to Iran?

No. Christianity has deep historical roots in the region.

Historical records show that in the centuries following Christ, there were churches in cities throughout the Persian Empire. Over time, much of this Christian history was erased. Today, many believe God is restoring what was lost, as underground churches continue to grow despite persecution.

Why does Crossroads focus on prayer instead of political analysis?

Because Scripture calls believers to respond first with intercession.

As Dr. Kazemi reminds us, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12). Prayer is not passive—it is a powerful, faithful response that trusts God to work beyond what we can see.

How can I personally respond?

You can:

Pray intentionally for Iran and the Church there

Watch and share the interview to stay informed

Reach out for prayer support if this situation—or your own circumstances—feel heavy

Crossroads’ prayer line is available 24/7 to listen and pray with you:
📞 1-866-273-4444