“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”  (Rev. 2:10)

Secret Christian meeting

Many years ago, while a young youth director, I wanted to illustrate to our group of teenagers what persecution is like in many places in the world. So, one evening, I took them to a small unlighted barn out in the countryside for a “secret Christian meeting”. We pretended to be persecuted Christians in a communist country meeting secretly to avoid those who would arrest us. To add realism, I had the kids sneak into the building a few at a time, in the dark, and very quietly, without talking. Once inside, we quietly read the Bible in the dark, with only a tiny reading light.Towards the end of our meeting, some “police” burst in and arrested us (of course, I had arranged this). After being interrogated and released, we returned to our normal meeting place to discuss the experience. Many said they were very glad we actually lived in a free country where we could openly meet and share our faith without being arrested. 

Persecution continues

It’s been about 50 years since we had that mock meeting. Those teenagers are now grandparents. The world is older, but people are still being persecuted around the world. And it has gotten worse here in America.

Jesus warned us

“And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Mark 13:13)

“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Tim. 3:12)

“Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” (John 15:20)

Therefore, rejoice and be glad

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 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.” (Matt. 5:10-12)

Nothing will separate us!

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (Rom. 8:35)

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Rom. 8:37)