Episode 416 - Show Notes
- Persecution for our faith comes in various ways. In its lesser forms persecution can include scorn, rejection, ridicule, hatred, and isolation. Sadly today, there are believers around the world who are facing Christian persecution in tragic ways. Persecution can include the confiscation or destruction of property, arrests, imprisonment, beatings, torture, murder, and executions.
- In fact, the International Society for Human Rights has said “80% of all religious freedom violations in the world today are directed against Christians.”
- We must realize the hatred of Jesus and his followers is inspired by Satan himself. In his jealousy of God, he acts out of his pride. His chief aim is to steal God’s glory and to oppose the work of God. As a Christ-follower you have aligned yourself with God, and as such, you are a target for the enemy.
- While we don’t want to hear it, the Bible does not promise us a pain free, problem free existence. We should note that Jesus doesn’t say if you are persecuted, but when you are persecuted.
- But as we study scripture we learn there are several reasons we can rejoice in persecution. First, we understand that suffering helps us grow spiritually. It is through adversity that we learn firsthand God’s ability to give us peace and strength.
- Second, we rejoice because share in the sufferings of Christ. We are identifying with Jesus. We gain a greater understanding of what Christ endured and it draws us closer to him in relationship.
- Third, we rejoice because Jesus promises a reward in Heaven for those who face persecution because of Him.
Matthew 5:11-12 - “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
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