The Power of Fellowship: How Supportive Companionship Strengthens Persecuted Christians in India
In a remarkable tale from India, an imprisoned pastor found renewed strength and hope through the unexpected companionship of another pastor arrested for similar reasons. This story highlights the crucial role of fellowship among believers enduring severe persecution in parts of the world.
As the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church is observed, Todd Nettleton, Vice President and radio host at Voice of the Martyrs, shares stories of faith under duress and the miraculous experiences that embolden believers. Nettleton urges global Christians to empathize with those suffering for their beliefs.
“The important thing is to put ourselves in their place,” Nettleton shared with The Christian Post, referencing Hebrews 13:3. He emphasized the desire for prayer, family support, and advocacy for freedom if he were in their shoes.
During a recent trip to South Asia, Nettleton encountered Christians facing threats of violence and destruction from their communities or government. Yet, many remained resolute in their faith.
One poignant story involves an Indian pastor imprisoned for four months. Initially buoyed by witnessing God’s work, he later struggled with despair due to harsh prison conditions and separation from family. In response to his prayers, another pastor was arrested and placed nearby, offering much-needed encouragement.
“Another pastor was arrested and assigned to the bed right across from him,” Nettleton recounted. “The two were the only Christians in the prison. The new arrival told him, ‘You’ve got to hang on. God’s going to work this out.’ It gave him the strength to continue faithfully suffering in prison.”
Both pastors have since been released, underscoring the importance of companionship during trials. Nettleton remarked on how vital it is for believers to walk alongside one another, especially during persecution or personal hardships.
Miracles continue to affirm the faith of many in India. Nettleton shared stories of divine healings that led skeptics to embrace Christianity, attributing these events to the undeniable power of Jesus.
India ranks 11th on the 2025 Open Doors World Watch List for Christian persecution, where Hindutva ideology often fuels violence against Christians. Anti-conversion laws in several states compound the pressure on converts to revert to Hinduism, facing threats of violence or death.
Globally, more than 380 million people encounter severe persecution for their Christian faith, according to Open Doors. To mark this year’s International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, VOM provides free resources for groups to pray for those in perilous regions.
Nettleton encourages believers to appreciate the power of prayer, especially for those whose worship is restricted by laws or violence. He reflects on the significance of communal prayer and empathy for those suffering in the body of Christ.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
