Brunei

Praise points

Abba Father, we praise You for the steadfast Christians in Brunei who continue to serve You in humility and courage despite the risk. Romans 5:3–4 – “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

Almighty God, thank You for moving in unseen ways—strengthening the underground Church and revealing Your presence in dreams, prayers, and quiet gatherings. Isaiah 55:11 – “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire.”

Prayer Points

Lord, open the hearts of Brunei’s leaders to allow freedom of religion. Remove the fear of punishment for worship and the legal obstacles that silence Your Church. Acts 5:29 – “We must obey God rather than human beings.”

Father, comfort those who have been rejected or disowned for following Christ. Let them find a family in Your Church and peace in Your promises.”2 Corinthians 1:4 – “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble.”

“God of mercy, protect Your children from persecution, especially the youth who face pressure to renounce their faith. Let their courage testify of Your truth.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3 – “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

A Call to Salvation

Lord Jesus, strengthen Christian parents to teach their children the Word in their homes, that the next generation will stand firm in truth and love. Deuteronomy 11:19 – “Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.”

Father God, heal divisions among believers and unite the Church in prayer and purpose. Let revival quietly begin in hearts that trust You. Philippians 1:27 – “Stand firm in one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the Gospel.”

Brunei, a small but oil-rich nation on the island of Borneo, is deeply rooted in Malay and Islamic traditions. Historically part of a vast maritime empire from the 15th to 17th centuries, Brunei’s influence stretched across modern-day Malaysia and the Philippines before falling under British protection in the 19th century. Gaining complete independence in 1984, the country has since been governed as an Islamic sultanate under Sharia law, which strongly shapes its culture and social order.

Bruneians are known for politeness, modesty, and deep respect for authority and religion. Christianity reached Brunei through European missionaries and seafarers during the 16th and 17th centuries. However, it never took firm root due to strict Islamic governance. Later, Christian teachers and clergy from Malaysia, the Philippines, and Western nations helped establish small church communities and schools. Yet, their influence has always been limited under tight regulations.

Today, Christian teenagers in Brunei face some of the most onerous restrictions in Southeast Asia. The nation’s ban on public Christmas celebrations, prohibition of evangelism, and restrictions on importing Bibles make open Christian expression nearly impossible. Converts from Islam face social rejection, expulsion from families, and legal pressure to reconvert. At the same time, churches struggle under inter-church division and fear of surveillance.

Youth ministry is closely monitored, and believers cannot share their faith publicly. As a result, many young Christians live their faith quietly, afraid to lose education, career opportunities, or family support. Brunei’s Church is under threat not just from external persecution but from internal silence and fragmentation. To preserve Christianity, believers must return to faithful endurance (2 Timothy 1:7–8), unity in Christ (Ephesians 4:3), and bold love (1 John 4:18). The future of faith in Brunei depends on prayerful families who disciple their children in secret strength, trust God’s sovereignty, and refuse to hide their light (Philippians 2:15).