John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
– Luke 3:16
The name “Azerbaijan” is related to the Persian word for fire and, depending on who is telling the story, it can mean “The Guardians of the Fire” or “The Land of Holy Fire.” Audio Bible listening programs are introducing the people of this ancient land to the real Holy Fire.
Azeri believers are being discipled as they hear the pure Word of God, and they are not afraid to use their network of friends to invite others to discover the hope, peace, and freedom they have found. The story of two friends shows how God is using your support to bring His Holy Fire to the Azeri people.
Namik and Samir had known each other for a long time, and Namik felt free to talk about Jesus, even though Samir often asked tricky questions because he opposed the truth. One day Samir angrily said, “My mother accepted Christ and after that I did not speak to her for three years! Yet, you come to me and tell me your fairy tales. No more of this Jesus!”
Namik decided he would pray for his friend, but not talk about Jesus for a while. Later, Namik offered Samir a Mini Proclaimer as a sign of peace between them. Each time he saw his friend, Namik would ask if he had listened. Samir would politely say that he had not, until one day.
That day, Samir said, “Now, I don’t have time for this. My family broke up and I feel unhappy.” Namik replied, “In this situation, only Jesus can help you, please listen to the Mini Proclaimer.” Namik prayed with his friend, but didn’t see him for another week.
The next time they met, Samir exclaimed, “How could I not accept Christ when you told me about Him for so many years? I have never heard words like I hear from the Mini Proclaimer!” Within weeks, Samir accepted Jesus and now attends Namik’s home group every week.