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Afshin Ziafat, lead pastor of Providence Church in Frisco, was born in Houston but moved with his family to their native country of Iran when he was two years old. His family returned to Houston when he was six, during the Iranian Islamic Revolution. As a high school senior, Ziafat became a Christian while reading a Bible an elementary school tutor had given him years earlier. His family disowned him because of his faith in Christ. Ziafat and his wife, Meredith, have three young children.
What is something Providence Church has been able to celebrate recently?
This past year we celebrated 20 years of our church. It was very special to look back and remember all that God has done in and through our body of believers. It inspires us greatly to continue seeking the Lord for more of His kingdom in our lives and extending through us to our community.
What do you want American Christians to know about the current conflict in Iran?
Although war is never something we desire and there are many debates online surrounding the conflict, the truth remains that God is sovereign over all the affairs of the world. Our desire is to pray for safety for all nations involved but also to pray for freedom for the people of Iran. I would want people to make sure they separate in their minds the people of Iran from the government of Iran. The people of Iran are some of the warmest and most hospitable people in the world.
How can American Christians be praying for Iranians, including fellow brothers and sisters in Christ?
The people of Iran have suffered 47 years of oppression under this Islamic regime, and yet one of the fastest growing underground churches in the world is in Iran. Our prayer is that a new day will dawn where these courageous believers will be able to spread the gospel openly without fear of retribution from the government.
What is a challenge Providence is facing?
We have been blessed to see God move in powerful ways as we have been a thriving and growing church. We have planted churches over the years and will continue to do so. To increase our capacity to reach more and send more people out, we have purchased land and are moving four miles to a new church site. There are many challenges as we are in the process of this expansion over the next year and would covet prayers for wisdom, guidance, and provision.
What’s one thing you’ve learned to this point of your ministry that you know you’ll never forget?
I have learned that God is bigger than anything I face. He sees the big picture and no obstacle stands in the way of His purposes. It is a joy to know that He sees the big picture and is in control. It reminds me to not keep looking ahead for my satisfaction but look to Him and enjoy the process of ministry.
How can SBTC churches be praying for Providence Church?
We would be so honored for you to pray for us to continue to be faithful to unashamedly proclaim the gospel and the whole counsel of God’s Word, that God would continue to make us a disciple-making church that pursues maturity.
