Arab

Great Commission Completion Plan Demographic

Arab Countries

Bahrain, Djibouti, Iraq (the Sunni population), Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, the Palestinian territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen

Population

~160,000,000

Unreached

82.20%

Current GCA Phase

Phase 2 (Mentoring)

Geographical Data

For our team’s strategies and planning, we include Bahrain, Djibouti, Iraq (the Sunni population), Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, the Palestinian territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen in the Arab demographic.

Together, these countries have a population of around 160 million people, making up 2% of the world’s population.

This region is about 82.2% unreached, according to Joshua Project statistics. About 700,000 people, or about 1.5% of this region, are evangelical believers.

Background Information

The Arab demographic, encompassing Bahrain, Djibouti, Iraq (the Sunni population), Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, the Palestinian territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen, is rich in cultural diversity. The cuisine of this region reflects its varied geography and history, with staples like hummus, falafel, kebabs, and tabbouleh being widely enjoyed. Each country adds its unique twist to these dishes, with spices and cooking techniques that reflect their local traditions. For instance, Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar are known for their lavish rice dishes like Kabsa and Machboos, often accompanied by lamb or chicken. In contrast, Levantine cuisine (found in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine) is celebrated for its mezze platters, incorporating a variety of appetizers. Coffee and tea are integral to social customs, often served in ornate settings as a gesture of hospitality.

Art and customs also vary across this region, though they share common threads rooted in Islamic traditions and Bedouin heritage. Calligraphy, particularly Arabic script, is a prominent art form, often adorning buildings, manuscripts, and textiles. Music and dance styles like the dabke in the Levant and the intricate rhythms of Gulf music reflect a deep appreciation for cultural heritage. Traditional attire, such as the thobe and abaya, also symbolizes a blend of modernity and tradition. Geographically, the Arab region spans diverse landscapes, from the vast deserts of Saudi Arabia and Oman to the fertile crescent of Iraq and Syria, and the coastal areas of Lebanon and Bahrain. These geographical distinctions influence not only the lifestyle and customs but also the architecture, with mudbrick buildings in the desert areas and stone houses in the mountainous regions. The region’s cultural richness is further enhanced by its history as a crossroads of civilizations, fostering a blend of ancient traditions and contemporary influences.

A Brief History of Missions in this Region

Christian missions to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have a profound history that dates back to the early days of Christianity. This region, being the cradle of Christianity, witnessed the spread of the faith by apostles and early Christian communities, with many significant biblical events taking place here. However, the ministry of early Christians in the Middle East did not spread toward the south east into the Arabian desert. It is documented that some Christians who do did travel to this region came because their heretic beliefs were not accepted in Syrian, Egyptian, or Palestinian churches. It is theorized that these Christians were the only Christian contacts Mohummad had, which could’ve influenced Mohummad and the Quran as many stories found in the Quran bear striking similarities to Jewish myths and apocryphal Christian books. Since the rise of Islam in the 7th century and the subsequent expansion of Muslim empires led to a significant decline in the Christian population. Over time, Christians faced persecution, marginalization, and were often relegated to minority status within predominantly Muslim societies.

In the modern era, the presence of Christian missions in the MENA region has been marked by both challenges and opportunities. Colonialism and Western imperialism in the 19th and early 20th centuries brought an influx of missionaries, who often faced resistance and suspicion from local populations due to political and cultural tensions. Despite these hurdles, missionaries persisted, adapting their approaches to include education, healthcare, and humanitarian assistance, aiming to build trust and demonstrate the love of Christ through service.

Today, Christian missions in the MENA region continue to operate under complex religious, social, and political dynamics. Modern missionaries employ strategies such as contextualization, interfaith dialogue, and the use of technology to reach diverse populations. They strive to overcome barriers and build bridges of understanding while sharing the transformative message of Jesus Christ. Despite the risks and challenges, their commitment to spreading the Gospel and providing humanitarian aid has left a lasting impact, contributing to the spiritual and social fabric of the region.

Target Persona

Target Persona

Suleiman (and family)

This strategic report will include a target persona for this region, information that is relevant to reaching this area, and a strategy for GCA work there.

Biographical Background

Suleiman is a 35-year-old man living in the bustling city of Amman, Jordan, deeply rooted in his Arab heritage and Islamic faith. As a devoted husband to Fatima and father to three young children, he takes his familial responsibilities seriously, striving to provide a stable and nurturing environment for his family. Suleiman’s days are marked by hard work as he labors as a small business owner or tradesman in the urban landscape of Amman, where he is known for his diligence, integrity, and strong work ethic. His life is a blend of traditional values and the demands of modern city living, as he navigates the challenges of supporting his family in a rapidly changing world.

At home, Suleiman is a loving and attentive father, dedicated to instilling the values of respect, faith, and hard work in his children. He and Fatima share a deep bond, strengthened by their shared commitment to their Islamic faith and their desire to raise their children with a strong moral foundation. They begin and end their days with prayers, participate in community religious activities, and make sure their children receive proper education both academically and spiritually. Despite the busy routines, the family finds joy in their close-knit relationships and the traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Spiritually, Suleiman is a man of faith who adheres to the teachings of Islam with dedication. He generally participates in daily prayers and attends Friday congregational prayers at the local mosque when able, but doesn’t see such customs as strict or as required as his father’s generation. He ensures his family observes religious ideals and festivals. However, beneath his outward devotion, Suleiman may experience moments of introspection and curiosity about deeper spiritual matters. Questions about the nature of God, the purpose of life, and the afterlife occasionally surface in his thoughts, prompting a desire for a deeper understanding and connection with the divine. These spiritual reflections, though often private because asking questions is often discouraged, indicate a yearning for a more profound and personal relationship with God.

Suleiman’s spiritual journey is shaped by his cultural and religious context, but he remains open to exploring new ideas and perspectives. The complexities of balancing tradition with personal spiritual growth sometimes lead him to seek answers beyond the familiar practices of his faith. In moments of quiet contemplation, Suleiman might ponder the teachings of other religions, including Christianity, and the message of love, forgiveness, and redemption that it offers. While societal norms and cultural expectations present barriers, his underlying spiritual quest provides an opportunity for meaningful conversations and potential openness to the transformative message of the Gospel.

Suleiman’s family is a close-knit and loving unit, deeply rooted in their Islamic faith and Arab cultural traditions. His wife, Fatima, is a devoted homemaker who supports the family with her nurturing presence, while their three young children, aged five, four, and three are the center of their lives. Together, they engage in daily prayers, participate in community religious activities, and prioritize education for their children, both academically and spiritually. Their home is filled with warmth, respect, and a strong sense of duty to uphold their faith and values, creating a stable and nurturing environment where each family member feels cherished and supported.

Religious Details

Suleiman’s family places a high value on their religious life, which is woven into the fabric of their daily routines and practices. Each day begins with the call to prayer at dawn, as Suleiman and Fatima lead their children in performing the Fajr prayer. This early morning ritual sets the tone for the day, grounding the family in their faith from the moment they wake up. Throughout the day, they pause for the additional four prayers, ensuring that their devotion to Allah remains at the forefront of their lives. These moments of prayer are not just obligations but opportunities for the family to reconnect spiritually and support one another in their faith journey.

On Fridays, Suleiman attends the Jumu’ah prayer at the local mosque, where he joins the larger community for the congregational prayer and listens to the Imam’s sermon. This weekly gathering is an important aspect of his religious life, providing a sense of belonging and spiritual reinforcement. While Fatima may sometimes attend the mosque, she often prays at home, maintaining the spiritual rhythm of the household. The children, eager to emulate their parents, participate in these prayers and learn about their faith through Islamic studies classes at the mosque, where they are taught the principles, stories, and moral teachings of Islam.

Religious festivals and communal events are also significant in the family’s religious life. During Ramadan, Suleiman and Fatima fast from dawn to sunset, breaking their fast with an iftar meal shared with family and friends. The children, while still young, observe the fast to the extent they can, learning the values of self-discipline and empathy for the less fortunate. The family celebrates Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha with joy and communal gatherings, reinforcing their connection to their faith and their community. Additionally, Suleiman and Fatima actively engage in acts of charity, such as giving Zakat and Sadaqah, teaching their children the importance of generosity and social responsibility. Through these practices, their religious life is rich, dynamic, and deeply integrated into their everyday existence.

However, new influences like the internet, YouTube, and Social media, is challenging the traditional beliefs of Suleiman, Fatima, and their children by introducing diverse perspectives and ideas that may conflict with their deeply held convictions. Suleiman and Fatima encounter progressive interpretations of Islam and secular viewpoints that prompt introspection and potential reevaluation of their roles and practices. Their children, exposed to secular content and peer influences, may struggle to balance their cultural and religious identity with the desire to fit into modern society.

Cultural Dimensions

Geert Hoffstead’s cultural dimensions can help us understand how to better communicate and collaborate with people in different regions. We should never assume any individual in a certain region would perfectly match these cultural dimensions but understanding these patterns can help us be more effective in these areas.

The Arab region has an average power distance index of 86, so the distance between leader and follower is very high; leaders expect serious recognition and respect. The average Individualism Index is 27, meaning they are mostly collectivistic and communal. The average motivation towards achievement and success is approximately 55, or about average; this means there is a roughly equal focus on achievements and relationships. The average Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) for the Arab region, weighted by population, is approximately 72, a decent amount above average; this means they are not very open to new ideas or ways of doing things. The average Long-Term Orientation Index (LTO) is approximately 30, meaning they are somewhat more focused on the present than the future. Finally, the average Indulgence Index (IVR) for the Arab region, weighted by population, is approximately 33, meaning citizens have limited freedom to pursue personal desires; there is an emphasis on social norms and expectations.

In the Arab region, relationships often reflect a hierarchical structure where authority and respect for status play significant roles. Individuals may prioritize family and community ties over personal independence. This collectivistic approach fosters strong bonds, but it may also create expectations for conformity to social norms. Individuals do aspire for personal and professional growth, but that is often aligned with group goals and collective welfare. There is a preference for stability and predictability, making established traditions and practices highly valued. There is a greater focus on immediate results rather than future planning. There is a moderate approach to enjoyment and leisure, often balanced by cultural norms and responsibilities. Understanding these dynamics is essential for building meaningful connections within this demographic.

Regional Strategy

Summary

To effectively share the Gospel with Suleiman and his family, a ministry must adopt a culturally sensitive and relationally driven approach. Building genuine, long-term relationships based on trust and mutual respect is essential, as it provides a foundation for meaningful conversations about faith. Understanding and honoring Suleiman‘s deep-rooted Islamic beliefs and cultural traditions are crucial to avoid alienation. Using contextualized communication that bridges Islamic teachings with the message of Jesus can help create a relatable and compelling narrative. Leveraging technology and social media to share testimonies, Christian content, and engage in online discussions allows for discreet exploration of Christianity in a way that resonates with Suleiman’s modern lifestyle.

Simultaneously, the ministry should be aware of and navigate the significant risks and obstacles present in this context. Legal restrictions, social pressure, and potential for misunderstanding require a careful and strategic approach. Demonstrating the love of Christ through acts of service and humanitarian aid can build goodwill and showcase the practical impact of Christian values, opening hearts to the Gospel. It’s important to ensure personal safety and security while being prepared to offer support to Suleiman if he faces opposition or challenges. Through persistent prayer, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a commitment to respectful and compassionate outreach, the ministry can present the transformative message of Jesus Christ in a manner that is both sensitive and impactful.

Strategic Considerations

Reaching someone like Suleiman with the Gospel in a culturally and religiously complex region requires a thoughtful, strategic approach. Understanding his deep-rooted Islamic faith, cultural values, and modern influences is crucial for effectively sharing the transformative message of Jesus Christ. The following five strategic considerations are designed to bridge the gap between differing worldviews and foster genuine, respectful engagement with Suleiman.

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect: Approach Suleiman with deep respect for his cultural and religious background. Understanding and honoring Islamic traditions and Arab customs can build trust and open the door for meaningful conversations about faith.
Relational Engagement: Develop a genuine, long-term relationship with Suleiman, demonstrating authentic care and interest in his life and family. Personal connections can create opportunities for sharing the Gospel in a context of trust and friendship.
Contextualized Communication: Present the Gospel in a way that resonates with Suleiman‘s cultural and religious framework. Use familiar concepts and narratives from Islamic teachings to bridge understanding and highlight the unique message of Jesus Christ. Allow lots of time for him to ask questions and be graceful if they are offensive. Additionally, it may take years for different truths to sink in.
Use of Technology and Media: Leverage digital platforms, social media, and online resources to share the Gospel in culturally relevant and accessible ways. This includes sharing testimonies, Christian content, and engaging in online discussions that Suleiman might find compelling and relatable.
Humanitarian and Social Action: Demonstrate the love of Christ through acts of service and charity that address Suleiman‘s community needs. Engaging in humanitarian efforts can reflect Christian values and create a positive impact that opens hearts to the message of the Gospel.

By implementing these strategies—cultural sensitivity, relational engagement, contextualized communication, leveraging technology, and humanitarian action—missionaries can effectively share the Gospel with Suleiman in a manner that resonates with his life and beliefs. These approaches not only honor his cultural and religious identity but also demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways, paving the way for a meaningful spiritual dialogue and a potential journey towards faith in Jesus Christ.

Risks and Obstacles

There are risks associated with ministry in this region. These include:

Cultural and Religious Resistance: Suleiman‘s deep-rooted adherence to Islam and cultural traditions might lead to resistance against ideas that challenge or differ from his beliefs. Efforts to share the Gospel could be perceived as an attempt to undermine his faith and cultural identity, resulting in strong pushback.
Social and Community Pressure: In tightly-knit communities like Suleiman‘s, there is significant social pressure to conform to shared religious practices and beliefs. Conversion or interest in Christianity could lead to ostracization, loss of social standing, or strained family and community relationships. Additionally, many Muslims in this context have a hard time considering that they can be a Christian as their beliefs run so deep they become a nationality. To many, becoming a Christian is as impossible as an African to ethnically become a European.
Legal and Political Restrictions: Many MENA countries have laws and regulations that restrict religious conversions, missionary activities, and the distribution of non-Islamic religious materials. These legal barriers can pose significant risks, including arrest, deportation, or other forms of legal repercussions for both the missionaries and Suleiman.
Misunderstanding and Mistrust: Historical and political tensions between Western countries and the MENA region can create a backdrop of mistrust and suspicion towards foreign missionaries. Suleiman might be skeptical of their motives, viewing them as agents of cultural imperialism rather than bearers of a genuine spiritual message.
Personal Safety and Security: Engaging in Christian missionary work in the MENA region can pose risks to personal safety. Missionaries may face threats, harassment, or violence from individuals or groups who oppose their activities, and Suleiman himself could face danger if he expresses interest in Christianity.

Our Strategy

We are currently in Phase 2 (Mentoring) in this region.
(Our 4 part GCA strategy includes Meeting / Mentoring / Mobilizing / Multiplying.)

GCA strategy 1: Prayer goal
1. There are many strategic ways to pray for this region, including one of many ramadan prayer lists, or using prayer cards from the Joshua Project.
GCA strategy 2: We are in GCA phase 2: Mentoring; we are building new relationships and investing in current relationships in this region. We are also equipping and mobilizing them with our training and resources.
GCA strategy 3: Translate our OYD, BEST FACTS, and other resources into local languages.
GCA strategy 4: There are approximately 10-12 million Christians in the Middle East. Many of them are orthodox and catholic, but about 1 to 2 million are protestant or evangelical. If we could focus on training these we could jumpstart our impact in the region.
GCA strategy 5: starting up conversations is hard for many in the Middle East, as cold evangelism does not work too well. So coming up with a strategy for local believers to use (Beyond just the One Minute Witness) would be an immense help for local believers to start sharing the gospel.
GCA strategy 6: One of the hardest things for local or other-nationality ministers is having a credible foundation for ministry as well as funds for their ministry. If we could create a business that was credible and lucrative, we could help many have this foundation and provide some means of funding so more could devote the bulk of their time to ministry.
GCA strategy 7: Most Arabs in the region are connected online. If we could create videos specifically to reach them and inform them the truth of Jesus and the bible, we could see many turn to Jesus and be filled with the Holy Spirit.