Prayer Points
Country Information
Japan is an island nation in East Asia and has a rich history that spans thousands of years. From the Jōmon and Yayoi periods to the rise of the samurai and shogunate systems, Japan developed a distinct culture marked by art, literature, ritual, and philosophy. Its society has long emphasized harmony, respect, and community. Traditional practices such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and martial arts coexist alongside modern technological and pop culture innovations.
Christianity arrived in Japan in the 16th century through the efforts of Jesuit missionaries like Francis Xavier, who introduced the Gospel to a nation influenced mainly by Shintoism and Buddhism. Over time, Christianity faced persecution, especially during the Tokugawa shogunate, where Christian Believers were executed or forced underground.
Today, Christian leaders continue to work to nurture faith. Still, Japanese Christian teenagers face challenges such as peer pressure, societal secularism, and the dominance of materialism. Disunity among Christians has emerged from denominational fragmentation, cultural misunderstandings, and a lack of strong mentorship. To prevent the extinction of Christianity in Japan, Believers must embrace biblical principles such as genuine love for one another, fellowship, steadfast faith, and active discipleship, fostering unity and spiritual growth.
