When Joshua dispatched spies to explore the land promised to his people, they returned with dual perspectives. These contrasting reports highlighted the prospects and challenges the Lord’s people needed to acknowledge and confront on their journey to claim the land. While it was admitted that the inhabitants of Canaan were formidable, it was equally valid to believe that the people of God could take possession of the land. The Lord, faithful and mighty, was with them (Numbers 13:30).
This duality is applicable when considering missionary work in North African countries. The region presents formidable spiritual challenges and difficulties, yet opportunities await those who trust the Lord, exercising patience and perseverance.
Language Barriers in North Africa
First, there is significant linguistic and cultural diversity in North Africa. Each country in the region has its distinct Arabic dialect, a combination of ancient Berber languages, Arabic, and French. While educated individuals often speak Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), familiarity with the local dialect proves essential for effective communication and building trust with the local population. French is the predominant European language in North African nations, due to the colonial influence of France. Additionally, the Egyptian dialect holds familiarity among North Africans due to Egypt’s significant impact on Arab media.
Each country in the region has its distinct Arabic dialect, a combination of ancient Berber languages, Arabic, and French.
Language is not merely a secondary consideration but a crucial factor that can either facilitate or impede your ministry. Notably, one contributing factor to the decline of Christianity in this region is the historical omission of translating the Bible and theological texts into local Berber languages. Thus, many missionaries in the past decades have worked diligently to offer the Bible in these unique dialects.
Cultural Diversity in North Africa
North Africa exhibits extreme cultural diversity. Each country has its unique stance regarding openness to the outside world and its acceptance of Christians and foreigners. For instance, countries like Morocco and Tunisia, due to the European influence and benefit from tourism, tend to be more open and tolerant compared to nations like Libya and Algeria.
Furthermore, the situation of Christians in North Africa is intricate. While the Muslim majority sees Christianity as an external influence introduced during the era of colonialism to their Islamic region, North African Christians assert that their roots run deep in the historical fabric of the area. It extends back to the early days of the Church, including significant events throughout Church history such as Pentecost (Acts 2:10; 17:1; Matthew 27:32).
Political and Social Persecution in North Africa
Christians in this region grapple with the blessed pain of persecution from their societies and governments. They encounter systematic discrimination in government job appointments and confront limitations on exercising their fundamental right to religious freedom and worship. Numerous church structures in North Africa maintain historical connections to the colonial era and persist as venues for local Christian gatherings. Nevertheless, as a precaution against potential police scrutiny, believers frequently convene in house churches, especially recent Christian converts.
Christians in this region grapple with the blessed pain of persecution from their societies and governments.
This stance is indicative of the region’s governments’ perspective on the inseparability of religion and state. North African governments perceive Islam not just as a religion but also as an integral part of the state. This perspective poses a challenge for Christians, as it makes it difficult for them to be seen as loyal citizens of their countries. Moreover, there is a prevailing belief among the Muslim community of North Africa that Christian evangelism is a threat to the stability of these nations and is linked to perceived conspiracies originating from the Christian West.
Consequently, the faith of Christians in this region undergoes constant testing. It is uncommon to find compromises or nominal Christians among them, as their commitment to Christ transcends mere lifestyle choices, constituting a resolute decision that may even entail the risk of their lives.
Born and raised in Egypt, Mina Yousef is currently pursuing his PhD in Islamic Studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds a Master of Arts in Muslim Studies (Columbia International University). He taught at Alexandria School of Theology in Egypt and currently works as the Director of Middle Eastern Projects at Thirdmill Ministries in Florida.
