JESUS SPEAKING
“If the world hates you, you will know that it hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I have spoken to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15: 18 – 20.)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Jesus was relentlessly persecuted during his earthly ministry. He was slandered publicly and privately. He was shunned and ridiculed by many, including several members of his own family. His message was so offensive that he was nearly stoned to death on a number of occasions (one time an angry mob unsuccessfully attempted to throw him from the precipice of a cliff.) Eventually, despite every miraculous feat, and act of immeasurable love, Jesus Christ was abandoned by his closest friends; he was bound, beaten, spit upon, and crucified. Those who willingly choose to follow him can expect to experience similar forms of persecution.
Eleven of the twelve disciples were brutally martyred for their unwavering faith; and the twelfth was imprisoned until his eventual death. Every disciple paid the ultimate price for fearlessly spreading the gospel throughout the known world. Although physical peril is a common type of persecution, it comes in many other forms. One day as I sat studying in a local coffee shop, I began talking with a Muslim friend concerning the tenants of the Christian faith. As I presented her with the gospel, a women sitting next to us became visibly upset. Not knowing that we were already friends, she yelled “Can’t you see she doesn’t want to talk to you about that?” The woman continued verbally harassing me; making every effort to subvert our conversation. I looked across the table at my friend and said, “This is the type of persecution that occurs when you become a believer.” Eventually the woman became so disruptive that we had to end our discussion.
Persecution is an inevitable consequence of genuine faith. Those who have never experienced it are likely keeping their beliefs hidden away; preferring safety and security above obedience to the Lord. Still there are those who boldly spread the gospel message. They make every effort to lead others to God. Such individuals love their fellows and serve one another in sincerity of heart. These bold men and woman can expect to be persecuted. Persecution in any form, although not very pleasant, is a distinct reminder that we are Christ’s disciples; and that we are earnestly following in the footsteps of our teacher, our master, and our friend.
“Lord Heavenly Father, provide us with opportunities to preach the gospel to the lost. May we reach out to those who might choose to become our eternal brothers and sisters. Strengthen us when we encounter persecution, so we can stand firm in our faith. Give us the courage to boldly speak the truth that we may continue to emulate Your Son, our savior, Jesus Christ. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you.
Jesus Speaks 