13.04.2021

How should a Christian respond to persecution?

Preamble:
Christians experience persecution in different ways and from different individuals. Some aggravating than others, putting believers in a difficult situation in how to deal, interact or co-exist with their persecutor and their persecution.

Bible passages: 
James 1:2-4, 2Timothy 3:12, John 1:3-4, Philippians 4:11-12, Philippians 4:10-14, Proverbs 31:8-9, Matthew 5:43-44, Matthew 5:40-43, Romans 12:20-21, John 16, 1Corinthians 10:13, John 6.

Discussion:
Persecution could be defined as affliction, constant bullying, putting one in a painful and uncomfortable situation or when someone or forces are after one’s life. Persecution could come in
different forms - it could be physical, racial, spiritual, social … The key point is that, there is always something good in one’s status or life that attracts the persecutors. Jesus Christ was persecuted for His boldness, wisdom and for disclosing that He is the son of God.
Persecution gives rise to injustice. The two are interwoven; injustice is wrong accusation. When someone’s right is taken away maybe as a citizen or for claiming to be a Christian - child of God. The key point here is that injustice should be challenged where possible. There are different examples of injustice and many ways of challenging injustice - Rosa Parks, American Activist “the first lady of civil rights”.
Jesus Christ came to bring salvation, equality between Jews, Samaritan, and other race, freedom, hope… etc
Why are Christians persecuted?

1. James 1:2-4 count it as joy if you’re going through persecution. Persecution brings growth in faith, endurance, strength …
2. Persecution helps Christians to rely on God, steadfast in God, trust God.
3. Believers go through persecution because Jesus is light John 1:3-4; darkness tries to extinguish light.
4. Persecution leads to testimony for others to believe in Christ Jesus.
5. Persecution gives opportunity for Christians to talk about Christ.
6. Fruit of the Spirit, persecution or long suffering is amongst the fruit of the Spirit that every Christian should possess.

What should Christians do during persecution?
1. Pray, be in His presence constantly, ask for guidance of the Holy Spirit 1Corinthians 10:13
2. Be aware that God knows what He wants to achieve from a situation, God is the porter we are the clay. We need to remember to pray for His will and accept the plan of God for our life.

Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Praise God