Persecution (The Book of Signs, Ch. 9)

by Dr. David Jeremiah

American culture is growing increasingly hostile toward Christianity. We are in the first stages of repression of Christian speech and actions, and even stronger measures may well follow. Persecution is only trouble that occurs “for righteousness sake” (Matthew 5:10).

But are American Christians really being persecuted? According to Christianity Today, most persecution is not violent. Instead, it’s a ‘squeeze’ of Christians in stages:

1. Stereotyping
2. Marginalizing
3. Threatening
4. Intimidating
5. Litigating

Christianity has suffered sever opposition from its inception, beginning with Christ Himself. But why does the gift of salvation encounter such persistent opposition? Because with salvation comes submission to God. We read of Christians that have been persecuted in the Bible, in history and even in modern times. But there are side effects of persecution:

• Suffering promotes character
• Suffering provokes courage
• Suffering proves Godliness
• Suffering produces joy
• Suffering provides rewards

Many Christians have not yet faced serious opposition for their beliefs, but there are three things we can do to prepare for that inevitable moment:

1. Determine to stand for truth
2. Draw support from one another
3. Derive your security from the Lord

We must realize that our persecutors can take nothing from us that we don’t already have securely fixed in Christ. That is the key to standing up to persecution.

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