GLOBAL PRAYER NETWORK: Mandaean of Iran

Rabu, 22 Oktober 2014

Mandaean of Iran

The Mandaeans are descendants of Jewish-Christian Gnostics (AD 150), and may be the only sect from late antiquity to identify themselves as Gnostics. Sometimes Mandaeans are called Christians of Saint John. Until recently, Mandaeans lived mainly in Iraq and Iran, but many have now fled Iraq and settled in other countries. "A very strange and singular people, in terms of their rituals, lives in the desert near Baghdad....they are a very simple people and they claim to possess a secret law of God, which they preserve in beautiful books." Ricoldo da Montecroce, c 1290. Mandaeism is based more on a common heritage than on any set of religious creeds and doctrines. They venerate John the Baptist, and baptism is their central sacrament.
Ministry Obstacles
After centuries of isolation the Mandaeans are quite insular and protective of their society and their religion. Christian resources are limited in their mother tongue.
Outreach Ideas
Mandaens now reside in some western countries, and access is easier than in the past. Christians should reach out to befriend these people, and find out more about their culture, their religion, and their world view. There are likely bridges to this people given their ancient roots in Christianity.
Pray for the followers of Christ
There likely are no Christian believers among the Mandaeans, but pray those who will soon find Christ will be able to clearly understand the Good News of Christ, especially the grace He offers.
Pray for the entire people group
Pray the Mandaen diaspora peoples will be able to integrate into the cultures and societies where they now reside, and will be open to new world views.
Scripture Focus
"How then shall they call upon Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" Romans 10:14-15