Lecture Notes: Interview with Afshin Javid

Introduction

• Special guest: Afshin Javid from Iran
• Born into a Shiite Muslim family
• Joined Hezbollah for three years
• Sent to America to spread Islam but changed course

Daniel, the Host

• Introduction by Daniel, the host
• Encouragement to support the channel via subscriptions and merchandise

Afshin's Background

• Born in southern Iran during a time of revolution against the Shah
• Family involved in the anti-Shah movement
• Key moment: Father confronted by an officer during a curfew
• Father's conviction influenced Afshin's upbringing

Early Life and Beliefs

• Desire to serve God from a young age
• Family history of dedication to Islam (prayer and fasting)
• The 1979 revolution's impact on personal beliefs

Joining Hezbollah

• Joined Basij (Hezbollah) at 12.5 years old
• Responsibilities: Enforcing religious laws, controlling women's dress, participating in violence
• Volunteer for martyrdom by walking on landmines

Journey to America

• Planned to convert Americans to Islam
• Ended up in jail in Malaysia due to illegal passports
• Became the leader of the mosque in prison

Encounter with Jesus

• During prison, had a spiritual confrontation
• Experienced demonic presence but was told to call on Jesus
• After calling on Jesus, felt immediate relief
• Confusing realization: Jesus' name held power over evil

Transformation

• Continual struggles with faith and identity as a Muslim
• Longing for a personal relationship with God
• Encountered God's forgiveness despite deep-seated beliefs

God’s Revelation

• Vision of a holy man (Jesus) who offered forgiveness
• Realization of Jesus as the way, truth, and life

Impact of Conversion

• Went to share the news of Jesus in prison, faced persecution
• Many Muslims questioned his faith and logic
• Challenged Muslims using their own beliefs about Jesus

Dialogue about Faith

• Discussed the nature of God (Trinity) using personal analogy
• Encouragement to Muslim friends to seek God directly

Conclusion

• Afshin’s ministry focuses on helping Muslims and Christians, especially in times of crisis (e.g., Gaza)
• Daniel thanked Afshin and invited ongoing support and prayer for his ministry
• Afshin's YouTube channel: Afshin Javid, where more can be learned

Key Terms

• Hezbollah: Islamic militant group in Lebanon
• Basij: Paramilitary volunteer militia in Iran
• Shah: The former monarch of Iran
• Shiite vs. Sunni: Two main branches of Islam, with differing beliefs and practices
• Shirk: Associating partners with God, viewed as a major sin in Islam
• Demonic Presence: Afshin's experience with a spiritual attack in prison.