Preparing for Persecution: A Call to Endure and Witness

This message is part of our ongoing series, "Follow Me: A Study of the Commands of Christ." Understanding and obeying Jesus' commands is crucial for anyone who desires to follow Him. This week, we focused on the inevitability of persecution, the opportunity it provides for witnessing, and the reward for enduring it.

The Inevitability of Persecution

Why Should Christians Expect Persecution?
Jesus makes it clear that persecution is not a matter of "if" but "when." He sends His disciples out as "sheep in the midst of wolves" (Matthew 10:16), indicating that attacks are inevitable. Throughout the passage, Jesus repeatedly states that His followers will be delivered to courts, flogged, and hated for His name's sake (Matthew 10:17-22). This inevitability is echoed by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:12, where he asserts that "all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

Types of Persecution
While Jesus speaks of physical persecution, such as flogging and being dragged before governors, persecution can also be non-physical. Verbal abuse, discrimination, and social exclusion are other forms of suffering Christians may face. For instance, Peter mentions that the world will malign believers for not joining in their sinful behaviors (1 Peter 4:3-4). Jesus also speaks of being hated, excluded, and reviled on account of Him (Luke 6:22).

Religious Persecution from Within
Interestingly, Jesus warns that persecution can come from within religious communities. In Matthew 10:17, He mentions being flogged in synagogues, indicating that religious leaders could be the persecutors. This internal persecution is often motivated by misinterpretations of Scripture and misguided zeal, as seen in the actions of the Pharisees and scribes against
Jesus and His disciples.

The Opportunity for Witnessing in Persecution

Bearing Witness Amidst Suffering
Persecution provides a unique opportunity to bear witness to Christ. Jesus tells His disciples that they will be brought before governors and kings to bear witness before them and the Gentiles (Matthew 10:18). In these moments, the Holy Spirit will guide them in what to say (Matthew 10:19-20).

Historical Examples
The early church experienced this firsthand. In Acts 8, after Stephen's martyrdom, a great persecution arose, scattering the believers. This scattering led to the spread of the Gospel as the believers preached the word wherever they went (Acts 8:1-4). Persecution, rather than hindering the Gospel, often serves to advance it.

Modern-Day Testimonies
Modern examples also illustrate this truth. Missionaries and believers in hostile regions often find that their suffering opens doors for evangelism. Their steadfast faith and willingness to endure hardship for Christ can be a powerful testimony that draws others to the faith.

The Reward for Enduring Persecution

The Promise of Salvation
Jesus promises that those who endure to the end will be saved (Matthew 10:22). This endurance is not a means of earning salvation but a demonstration of genuine faith. The reward for enduring persecution is eternal life and the crown of life, as mentioned in Revelation 2:10.

Encouragement from Scripture
Scripture offers numerous encouragements for those enduring persecution. 1 Peter 5:10 assures us that after suffering for a little while, God will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish us. 2 Timothy 2:12 promises that if we endure, we will also reign with Christ.

Applying the Sermon to Your Life
This week, reflect on the inevitability of persecution and how you can prepare for it. Consider the following questions:
1. Am I prepared to face persecution for my faith?
2. How can I use moments of suffering to bear witness to Christ?
3. Do I recognize that persecution can come from within religious communities?
4. Am I willing to endure persecution, knowing that there is a reward awaiting me?

A Challenge for the Week
Decide to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, even if it means facing persecution. Commit to standing firm in your faith and using every opportunity to witness for Christ. Remember, the reward for enduring persecution is eternal and far outweighs any temporary suffering.

Persecution is an inevitable part of the Christian journey, but it also provides unique opportunities for witnessing and comes with the promise of eternal reward. As you go through this week, be prepared for persecution, seize opportunities to bear witness, and hold fast to the promise of salvation. Carry your cross, knowing that one day you will see Jesus and receive the crown of life.