The Church of Najran of present-day Saudi Arabia
Kindling a Flame of Light & Life
A Compilation of Studies & Reflections: Commemorating 1500 years
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A Story of Faith & Courage:
Najran, a major city of present-day Saudi Arabia, traces its roots to the ancient Raamah of Genesis 10. Renowned since time immemorial as being a refreshing and fertile oasis in a vast Arabian desert, Najran was a constantly revolving door on the gold and incense trade routes. This hospitable haven for caravans became a bastion of faith where the Gospel of Christ was sown, enduring for hundreds of years. In the 5th & 6th centuries, amidst the rise of political and religious discord in South Arabia and abroad, all hell broke loose. The faith of Najran would be severely tested, like gold in a fiery furnace.
It is our hope that the retelling of these stories of steadfast faith will serve to kindle yet another fire, that of light & life, around which all are welcome to gather.
“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (1 Peter 1:6-7)
Elizabeth & Family
A courageous deaconess from Najran, the sister of Bishop Paul, who loved not her life even unto death; and a midnight family burial and Eucharist.
Ruhm & Family
The noble woman who boldly unveiled her face for her final testimony and dressed her daughter and 9-year old granddaughter for a wedding banquet…
Harith (Arethas)
A legendary leader, a renowned poet, a brave warrior, the patriarch of a large tribe of present-day Saudi Arabia, a martyr with the faith of Abraham…
Abdullah the Son of Royalty
A lion-hearted man, the son of an ambassador in an ancient line of kings, the baptism of his father; reflections concerning a prophetic prayer of David.
Baysar & His Faithful Mother
A 3-year old boy who bit the leg of a king, and his devoted mother who surrendered him over to Christ; An unfolding story of love and faithfulness.
Mahya – from Outcast to Christ
A slave woman and social outcast who gave everything for Christ, like a storm unleashed.
Tahna & Family
A bold woman from Najran along with her daughter and maidservant who chose not to be left behind. A church set on fire, a flame that would ignite the world. Reflections and questions about various responses to persecution.
Azqir – A Prayerful Pastor
Dark dungeon gates that open, a light that shines in the darkness, a baptism of believers under arrest – in a miraculous spring, with answered prayers.
Habsa, daughter of Hayyan
A Najrani woman and her devoted companions; the descendant of a Najrani merchant who sowed the Gospel among their people.
The History of Najran
The tapestry of an early Christian witness in South Arabia and Najran; an ancient city on the cross-roads of civilizations, an oasis known for its hospitality and faith. A call for further study.
Summoned by Name
Gleaning lessons from the martyrs’ names; a culture where names matter; a reflective study of 250 documented personal names. Called by name.
Harith’s Final Charge
A translation and study of a tribal leader’s charge to believers before his martyrdom. Harith’s call to “kindle a fire upon the mountaintop.”
Entering In
Daring to pray the prayers of Najran: The opening of iron gates, the multiplying of loaves, the rattling of bones, the presence of Christ, and a tended flock. A call to prayer.
City of Thunder
Reflections upon the ancient names of Najran. A gateway city for both incense and faith. A reminder of God’s faithfulness and salvation to those who call upon his name, and of his mighty thunder.
The Faint of Heart
Considering those who with smoldering faith denied Christ in Najran, and who later repented and received the forgiveness of sins. A call to encourage the downcast and to strengthen the weak.
Servants of the Church
Remembering and honoring those who served and advocated for Najran, the ministers of the Gospel. A call to serve today, and a call to shepherd the flocks of Christ.
An Enduring Church in Arabia
The Church of the Resurrection of Christ persevered in Najran for at least 735 years. Christian gravestones reveal that an indigenous public church endured in Najran for at least 850 years. A call to persevere in the midst of adversity.
Sons & Daughters of the Covenant
An ancient ministry of the Church appears in Najran, with Psalms and women’s choirs. A call to worship, to devotion, and a call to care for those in need. A call for women to serve.
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