2 Timothy 3
In our country, we never had religious persecution, although we have martyrs. There has been no organized, systematic attempt to destroy the Church in this land. So, when we hear St Paul say, “Indeed, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted”, we might feel his words are no longer relevant to us. However, it is also true that Christians in this country feel unwelcome, especially in the public sphere. Christianity is fine in private, but not in public. But other religions are often encouraged to express their identity in public. Why is that?
There is a historical background that Christian authorities in the past did not show exemplary leadership. People experienced authoritarian attitudes of the leaders. These leaders were more rulers and governors than shepherds.
However, this does not explain all. Particularly, the quoted words of St Paul cannot be explained, because our historical background only explains an ‘ungodly’ life may lead to an unwelcoming atmosphere to Christians. Are St Paul’s words totally irrelevant or untrue?
I think that, fundamentally, our corrupted humanity has resistance to the calling to sanctity and holiness. Not only non-believers but also believers cannot but carry this tendency from birth to death. Whenever I hear the Gospel, I feel certain resistance in my heart that opposes the Way of Christ. At the same time, I feel excited and thrilled at selfish or unholy ideas. I have to admit this evil tendency in me, even if I don’t like it. Before any public persecution, it is more likely that I refuse and reject the Gospel, at least, interiorly. The world likes to ridicule holiness. We often speak and act as if holiness is impossible. When the Gospel is proclaimed and preached, the world is agitated and irritated, while it gladly embraces immoral and corrupt ideas and lifestyles.
When I try to live a godly life, first, I face myself as an opponent. Before the world persecutes me, I persecute myself. Before the world persecutes the Church, Christians persecute themselves.
St Paul’s words still hold true, “Indeed, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
