Tough regulations have made it difficult for churches to complete necessary registration. The process is ‘mired in bureaucracy’ and applications are often refused. State opposition has become the ‘biggest obstacle’ facing churches in Azerbaijan today. Recently 30 police officers visited a pastor's home and told him it was illegal to spread the teachings of Jesus in Azerbaijan, despite religious freedom being guaranteed in the constitution. He was told he would be spared prison if he ceased working as an evangelist. The pastor refused and was jailed for 18 months - accused of keeping weapons. Another pastor explained, ‘They are afraid that if people become Christians they would prefer the interests of Russia over those of Azerbaijan.’ Head of the Baptist Union of Azerbaijan said, ‘At any moment the pastor of a church can be imprisoned.’ Despite this the church in Azerbaijan is growing with an estimated 10,000 members.

Pray: for God to raise up people to defend the rights of believers, for Christians to come together without fear of government, police, security services or extremists. (Ps.12:5&7)

More: http://www.christiantoday.com/article/azerbaijan.christians.under.increasing.pressure/31593.htm