Christian Morality in Public Dialogue | An Afghan Debate

Samir participated in a public debate among Afghans that addressed one of the most essential questions of human life: morality and ethics. The discussion brought together voices from different worldviews, including a Christian perspective, an Afghan atheist, and two Muslim secular participants. Rather than focusing on religious labels, the debate examined the foundations of moral judgment, the basis of human dignity, and the role ethics play in shaping both personal life and society.

You can watch the conversation on YouTube. It is in the Dari language.

The conversation was marked by seriousness and respect, demonstrating that Afghans are increasingly willing to engage openly with difficult questions about truth, justice, and meaning.

Morality as a Foundational Question

During the debate, Samir argued that morality is not a secondary concern, but one of the essential questions every person must face. Questions of right and wrong, justice and injustice, cannot be avoided, and they require a foundation strong enough to sustain them.

From the Christian worldview, Samir presented a coherent moral framework grounded in four core convictions.

First, human dignity is intrinsic because every person is created in the image of God. Human worth is not granted by the state, culture, or personal achievement. It is inherent and unchanging.

Second, the purpose of human life is to love God and to love one's neighbour. Christian morality is relational at its core, calling for responsibility, compassion, and faithfulness in how we treat others.

Third, moral truth is not merely taught but embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. In Christ, ethics take on human form. His life reveals what justice, humility, mercy, and self-giving love look like when fully lived.

Fourth, the reality of life after death affirms that justice is enduring. Christian faith holds that moral choices matter beyond this life. Evil does not have the final word, and goodness is not ultimately wasted.

Public Engagement and Reception

The importance of this discussion was reflected in its reach. More than 900 Afghans watched the debate live, and thousands more watched it afterwards across various social media platforms. The discussion prompted an extraordinary level of live interaction, as tens of thousands of comments were posted throughout the event and after.

For a sustained and substantive conversation on morality and ethics, this level of engagement points to a genuine hunger among Afghans for thoughtful public dialogue.

Praise God, the discussion was widely received with appreciation. Many noted not only the depth of the arguments, but also the tone in which they were presented. By God's grace, the character of Christ was evident throughout the exchange.

Why This Matters Now

These conversations matter because Afghan Christians are now stepping into the public conversation. For generations, Christian perspectives were largely absent or silenced within Afghan discourse. Today, that silence is being replaced with thoughtful engagement, public reasoning, and Christlike witness.

As Afghan Christians, participation in public dialogue carries both privilege and responsibility. We are called not only to articulate our convictions clearly, but to do so with humility, courage, and grace. Praise God that in this debate, the character of Christ was displayed and the message was received with openness and seriousness.

We pray that such conversations will continue, encouraging honest reflection, respectful disagreement, and a deeper search for truth. May God use these moments of dialogue to bring wisdom, clarity, and hope to many.

What You Can Do

As we continue to engage in public dialogue and meaningful conversations, we remain deeply aware of our need for the Lord's wisdom and grace. These discussions are not easy. They require patience, courage, and humility. Yet we remain confident that the Lord is at work through them.

Please pray for us:

• Pray for wisdom and clarity as we speak about faith, morality, and the truth in the public arena of life.

• Pray that the character of Christ would continue to be evident in our words, tone, and conduct.

• pray for open hearts among those listening and participating in these conversations.

• Pray for protection, discernment, and strength as we engage difficult questions with grace.

• Pray that God would use these dialogues to draw many towards Christ by opening their eyes to the truth, healing the hearts, and giving them hope.

Blessings,

Samir Afghan Executive Director

Lumens of Truth