Steve Gaines

More Christians are being persecuted for their faith today than at any time in history. The Bible says that those who live godly in Jesus will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). Persecution is not a matter of if; it’s a matter of when.

The Reality of Persecution. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:10-12) that we are “blessed” when people insult and persecute us. If we live Spirit-filled, separated, holy, prayerful lives, the devil will see to it that the world harasses us. If the world hated Jesus, it will hate us as well. His servants are not greater than their Master (1 John 15:18-25).

The Reaction to Persecution. Jesus tells us to “rejoice and be glad” when we are persecuted. When the apostles were beaten for preaching about Jesus, they rejoiced that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name (Acts 5:41).

The Reward for Persecution. Jesus said persecution is a sign that ours is the kingdom of heaven and that our reward in heaven is great. We can also take comfort knowing that when we’re persecuted, we’re following in the footsteps of Christianity’s greatest warriors. The prophets before us were persecuted, as were the early Christians and many others. Down through the centuries, those who stand for Christ and His Word enrage the world and the devil. It’s just as Jesus said it would be.

If you suffer because of foolishness or sin, you should repent, not rejoice. But if you suffer for Christ’s sake, you should be glad. He has walked that painful road before you. You must endure your cross for the joy yet to come. Resurrection lies just ahead!