(The Blaze) – Millions of Christians across the globe live in perpetual fear that they will be punished, harmed — or even killed — for merely practicing their faith. Worldwide persecution continues to be at a fevered pitch, with varying degrees of affliction for those who openly embrace the Bible.
This tragic reality is more than evident in Open Doors USA’s latest “World Watch List,” an annual report that offers “an unparalleled glimpse into the 50 places around the world where it costs the most to be a Christian.” According to the stunning 2020 report, more than 260 million Christians live in places where there is a high level of persecution, amounting to one-in-eight Christians worldwide.
The “World Watch List” gives a lens into some of the most unthinkable scenarios. “It’s the foremost grassroots data on the persecution of Christians,” Open Doors USA president and CEO David Curry recently told “The Pure Flix Podcast.” “It gives us an idea about the trends of religious liberty generally.”
He said there are restrictions in most places of the world, but that the areas of extreme oppression will likely shock those unfamiliar with the dire scenario. From government seizure of property and social exclusion to violence and murder, there is a wide range of ways in which Christians can be oppressed for their faith. READ MORE
