Despite our perception living in America, Christians are still the world's most persecuted group of people and face widespread violence and subjugation. It's hard to fathom this sometimes, but one of my friends from church pointed me to the website of The Voice of the Martyrs magazine that helps lend a little sobering perspective. If you're interested, you can also sign up with their affiliated site, PrisonerAlert, and get email updates about Christians who are jailed for their beliefs.
Around the world today Christians are being persecuted for their faith. More than 70 million Christians have been martyred for their faith since 33 AD. This year an estimated 160,000 believers will die at the hands of their oppressors and over 200 million will be persecuted, arrested, tortured, beaten or jailed. In many nations it is illegal to own a Bible, share your faith, change your faith or allow children under 18 to attend a religious service.
I can believe it. My brother is in Qatar right now, and even in the Air Force, they have to be careful about bringing Bibles and such into the country. At least they let him have Harry Potter, though!