THE AMAZING STORY OF PAKISTAN’S
CHRISTIANS:
A look back over 2,000 years of
Christian history in the land we now
know as Pakistan
By Michael Wakely
Malcolm Down. 192 pages. £12.99
ISBN 978 1 915 046 826
Written by someone who has loved and served the people of Pakistan for many years, this book presents a whistle-stop tour through the history of Christian witness in the Punjab area in a heartfelt way.
Surprising to many may well be the fact that this history is traced back as far as Pentecost and was not wholly dependent on 19th-century missionaries. On the grounds that Parthians were present among the crowds hearing Peter preach on that occasion, it is argued that it is possible, even likely, that the gospel was taken back to the region at that point. The author also draws on the oral tradition that the apostle Thomas was commissioned to preach in the area.
In addition, the role of Christians throughout the subsequent times under various regimes (with corresponding changes in status of favour and persecution) is outlined. Potted biographies of significant figures are given, and the emerging story is as amazing as the title claims. The treatment of the subject is comprehensive in that all contributors, regardless of position on the theological spectrum, are dealt with.
It is so encouraging to read of the great benefit to society that Christianity brought in the areas of education and health care, as well as the characteristic concern for the marginalised: the poor and women.
In the more recent past, the political pressures on the church are more fully discussed, as well as the growing activity of various para-church organisations. In conclusion, a brief assessment of the health of the Christian church in Pakistan is made: there is much to give thanks for, and the gospel is ever a message of glorious hope. Anyone with an interest in what God is doing will be encouraged by this book and will be inspired to pray for brothers and sisters and the further spread of the gospel in that land.
