On April 18, 2007, three Christians – employees of the Bible publishing firm Zirve Publishing House in Malatya, Turkey – were attacked, tortured, and murdered by five Sunni Muslim assailants. April 18th has now become the national day of prayer among Turkish Christians. It is a day to pray for peace, for opportunities to share the Gospel, and for the families of martyrs.

In this New Hope Video Reflection, shot in Izmir, Turkey, Justin talks about how the Church at Smyrna faced grave persecution for their faith in Jesus. And today, Turkish Muslims who convert to Christianity also risk ostracism, discrimination, or even persecution.