What Does Jesus Say About Persecution

10 Key Bible Verses on Persecution

This article is a part of the collection of key Bible verses.

1. 2 Timothy 3:11–12

Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra were the sites of persecution and suffering that I underwent; nonetheless, the Lord delivered me from all of these trials. It is true that anyone who seek to live a virtuous life in Jesus Christ will face persecution. More information can be found at

Read the Commentary

During Paul’s first missionary voyage (Acts 13–14), he visited the cities of Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra, before inviting Timothy to accompany him on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:1). In light of the fact that Timothy’s homeland was Lystra (Acts 16:1–2), he was most likely aware of what occurred to Paul during his first tour. As a result, Timothy would have realized from the beginning of his acquaintance with Paul that pain had played a fundamental role in Paul’s mission. “From them all, the Lord delivered me,” however, does not imply that Paul was spared any injury in these situations; for example, at Lystra, he was stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19–20), and it is probable that Timothy was there when this happened.

See 2 Timothy 4:18 for further information.

2 Tim.

Although there may be less “persecution” in a nation when Christians have had a greater effect on the laws and cultural norms of that country, the unbelieving world will always be hostile to the gospel.

2. John 15:19–20

If you were a member of the world, the world would embrace you as one of its own; yet, because you are not a member of the world, but rather a member of the world whom I choose out of the world, the world despises you. I want you to keep in mind something I stated to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master’. If they harassed me, it is likely that they will persecute you as well. If they maintain my promise, you can be sure they will keep yours as well. More information can be found at

Read the Commentary

Christians should not be shocked when unbelievers all across the world despise them and their religion.

It is consistent with a pattern that has been in the world since Cain murdered Abel (see Gen. 4:8; Heb. 11:4; 1 John 3:12), and it is also consistent with the world’s reactions to Christ himself (see 1 John 3:12). (see John 15:18).

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3. Matthew 5:10–12

People who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness are blessed because they will inherit the kingdom of heaven. When people unjustly accuse you of being a traitor and persecute you, and when they say all manner of evil against you on my behalf, you are blessed. Rejoice and be joyful, for your reward in heaven will be great, since they persecuted the prophets who came before you in the same manner. More information can be found at

Read the Commentary

Persecuted individuals are persons who have been wrongfully treated as a result of their religious beliefs. God is delighted when his people demonstrate that they place a high value on him above everything else in the world, which occurs when they bravely remain steadfast in the face of resistance for the sake of righteousness. In the same way that Jesus faced resistance and persecution, his disciples may expect to face the same. Their recompense may not come on this planet, but it will undoubtedly be theirs in the afterlife.

4:8; see also 1 John 3:12) and continuing now.

4. Mark 10:29–30

‘Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house, brothers, sisters, mother, father, children, or lands, for my sake and the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and lands with persecutions, and in the age to come, eternal life.’ More information can be found at

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A person who gives up his or her home, lands, and family for the sake of Jesus (cf. Mark 8:35, 38; Matt. 5:11; Luke 12:8-9; Luke 18:29) and the gospel can expect to enjoy fellowship with other believers in this life (now in this time). He or she can also expect to be welcomed into the homes and lands of other believers.

However, in this life, these rewards will be combined with trials and tribulations (cf. Mark 8:34-38). A greater prize awaits us in the future: the gift of everlasting life. With this response, Jesus informs the disciples that they have heeded the call and are blessed as a result of their response.

5. Revelation 2:10–11

Do not be afraid of what you are going to go through. Behold, the devil is preparing to imprison some of you in order to put you through your paces, and you will experience tribulation for 10 days. If you remain faithful even to death, I will reward you with the crown of life. The Spirit’s message to the churches should be heard by anybody who has an ear for it. The second death will have no effect on the one who has triumphed over the odds. More information can be found at

Read the Commentary

Although the affliction for Christians in Smyrna will be brief (see. Dan. 1:12–16), it may result in martyrdom rather than freedom from jail (cf. Rev. 7:14–17), which would be an even better outcome. Those who love God will get a laurel wreath of triumph, which is the crown of life (i.e., eternal life), as promised by God in 1 Corinthians 9:25, 2 Timothy 4:6–8, and James 1:12. According to Rev. 20:4–6, whomever conquers by remaining faithful even in the face of death is exempt from the second death (see Rev.

6. 2 Corinthians 12:9–10

His response was, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness,” he added. To the extent that my limitations are magnified by Christ’s strength, I shall take pleasure in them much more than otherwise. As a result, for the sake of Christ, I am willing to put up with my flaws, insults, difficulties, persecutions, and disasters. Because while I am weak, I am also powerful. More information can be found at

Read the Commentary

For Paul and every believer, God’s grace “is sufficient” (in the present tense), highlighting the ever-present availability and sufficiency of God’s grace, regardless of how crucial one’s circumstances may be (cf. Rom 8:31–39). Despite the fact that Paul was not permitted to speak about his heavenly revelations (2 Cor. 12:4, 6), he quotes Christ’s declaration (“My grace is sufficient”) to emphasize that it was his earthly weaknesses (rather than his revelations) that would serve as a platform for perfecting and demonstrating the Lord’s power.

7. Galatians 4:29

You, brothers, are now considered to be offspring of promise, just as Isaac was. However, just as those who were born according to the flesh persecuted those who were born according to the Spirit at that time, so it is today. More information can be found at

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It is similar to Isaac’s miraculous birth in that the Galatians have become God’s offspring via an act of God’s gracious and miraculous power rather than through their own efforts. In the same way that Ishmael persecuted Isaac (although this is not directly stated in the Old Testament, it is implied by Gen. 21:9), so now the Jews who seek justification by human effort are attacking Christians who accept God’s promise of justification through faith in Jesus Christ. When Hagar became pregnant, according to Genesis 16:4, “she looked down her nose at her mistress.” This is also reflected in the fact that non-Christian and pseudo-Christian Jews are now attacking Christians like Paul, as was the case before (as seen in Gal.

The past is repeating itself now.

8. 1 Thessalonians 3:3–4

Nobody should be affected by these troubles. This is because you yourself are aware that we are destined for this outcome. Because, while we were with you, we were telling you that we were going to be afflicted, exactly as it has happened and just as you are aware of it. More information can be found at

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Paul’s motivation for dispatching Timothy was to provide support for the beleaguered Thessalonians (cf. 2 Thess. 1:5-7). Christians are doomed to hardship as a result of their religious beliefs (Rom. 8:17-18; 2 Tim. 3:12; also Mark 10:30; 1 Pet. 4:12-13). The persistent persecution had, according to Paul, taken the Thessalonians completely by surprise.

9. Matthew 10:16–18

I am sending you out as sheep among wolves, so be as clever as serpents and as pure as doves when you go out into the world. Men should be on your guard because they will hand you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be hauled before governors and kings for my sake, in order to bear witness before them and the Gentiles, so be on your guard. More information can be found at

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As Jesus tells the disciples, missionary disciples will face persecution. The serpent represented shrewdness and intellectual cunning (Genesis 3:1; Psalm 58:4–5), whereas the dove represented simple innocence (Genesis 3:1; Psalm 58:4–5). (Hos. 7:11). Synagogues were not only places of prayer, but they were also locations where the Jewish community’s discipline was enforced (flog).

It was prophesied by Jesus that the early church leaders would be brought before Jewish officials (Acts 4:1–22), the secular authority of Israel (Acts 12:1–4), and the Roman authorities (Acts 13:1–4). (Acts 14:5).

10. 1 Peter 4:12–14

Friend, don’t be startled when the fiery challenge comes upon you to test your faith in the way that it appears as though something weird is occurring to you. But celebrate insofar as you are a part of Christ’s sufferings, so that you may be able to rejoice and be joyful when the revelation of his glory occurs. If you are offended because of the name of Christ, consider yourself blessed because the Spirit of God’s glory and blessing dwells upon your person. More information can be found at

Read the Commentary

The word “Beloved” signals the beginning of a new segment of the correspondence (cf. 1 Pet. 2:11). Suffering is the norm for Christians, and it is not something that should be taken for granted. A Christian’s call to rejoice in the midst of suffering is an invitation to rejoice as a follower of Christ, and such pleasure is a forerunner to the joy that will be revealed upon Christ’s return (when his glory is revealed). Being offended because one is a follower of Christ is a blessing from God, since it is at such moments that the Spirit of glory, the Holy Spirit, descends onto believers in a very forceful way, blessing them.

11:2; see also Matthew 3:16) is the same Spirit who now rests on the believer.

14 Bible Verses about Persecution

People who are persecuted for doing what is right are blessed because theirs is the kingdom of heaven
In fact, everybody who wishes to live a virtuous life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I take pleasure in my shortcomings, in insults, in trials, in persecutions, and in difficulties of every kind. Because while I am weak, I am also powerful
It is important to remember that the world hated me first
Blessed are those who are hated, who are excluded and insulted, who reject your name as bad, because of the Son of Man
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Will there be struggle, suffering, persecution, starvation, nakedness, danger, or the use of the sword? But believe me when I say that you should love your opponents and pray for those who persecute you. When people criticize you, persecute you, and falsely accuse you of all kinds of wickedness because of me, you should consider yourselves blessed. No one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and fields—along with persecutions—as they will receive in the age to come eternal life,” Jesus declared. Bless those who persecute you
Bless rather than curse
My time is in your hands
Release me from the clutches of my foes and from the clutches of those who are pursuing me. Maintain a level of alertness and clarity of thought. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion hunting for someone to eat
I fell to the ground and heard a voice cry to me, ‘Saul! Saul!’ I sprang to my feet and heard the words, ‘Saul! Saul!’ ‘What is it about me that you persecute?’ Even though I have to walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid because you are with me
Your rod and your staff are there to soothe me.

Bible verse of the day

The L ord hears the cries of the righteous, and he rescues them from all of their worries and tribulations.

He is near to people who are brokenhearted and rescues those who are crushed in spirit.

Random Bible Verse

When you pray, however, retire into your room, lock the door, and focus your thoughts on your heavenly Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees everything that is done in secret, will reward you for your efforts. Next verse, please! With the aid of a picture

Bible Verses about Persecution

1It was during this time that King Herod arrested several members of the church, with the intent of persecuting them, according to the Bible. 2He ordered the execution of John’s brother, James, with the sword. 3When he realized that this was being received with favor among the Jews, he went on to capture Peter as well. This occurred at the Festival of Unleavened Bread, which took place this past weekend. Having arrested him, he placed him in prison, entrusting him to the care of four squads of four soldiers each, who were assigned to watch him.

5As a result, Peter was imprisoned, but the church was fervently pleading to God for his release.
7In an instant, an angel of the Lord arrived in the cell, and a light shined throughout the room.
Suddenly, the shackles dropped off Peter’s wrists as he said, “Quick, get up!” The angel then told him to put on his clothing and footwear, which he promptly did.
“Wrap your cloak tightly over yourself and follow me,” the angel instructed him to do.
Peter followed him out of the prison, completely unaware that what the angel was doing was a genuine event; he had the impression that it was all in his head.
It opened up for them on its own, and they passed through it without incident.

11Then Peter saw what had happened and said to himself, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel to save me from Herod’s grasp and from all the Jewish people had hoped would occur.” 12When he realized what he’d done, he rushed to the house of Mary the mother of John, who was also known as Mark, where a large crowd had collected and was praising the Lord.

14When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was pleased to the point that she hurried back to the door without opening it and cried, “Peter is at the door!” 15 “You’re completely out of your mind,” they said.

15When they began to speak, Peter signalled with his hand for everyone to remain quiet and told how the Lord had delivered him from jail.

18When the troops woke up the next morning, there was a great deal of consternation over what had happened to Peter.

19After Herod had a thorough search conducted for him and failed to locate him, he interrogated the guards and ordered their execution. Herod then traveled from Judea to Caesarea, where he remained for a while.

For The Martyrs: 10 Scriptures that Give Hope Amidst Persecution

When was the last time you questioned why God permitted you to suffer so greatly despite following his commands? Do you recall that period in your life? Through your prayers, did you find yourself questioning God’s existence? Please don’t be concerned because the Lord is kind and just; his love is unwavering, and he will never abandon us. The following are some passages from the Bible that you should bear in mind anytime you are subjected to hardship and persecution as a result of your Christian religion.

Matthew 5:10-12 a.
10Blessed are those who are persecuted for doing what is right, because theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
12Rejoice and be joyful, because great is your reward in heaven, for they persecuted the prophets who came before you in the same manner.
3.2 Corinthians 12:10 is a verse from the Bible.
Because while I am weak, I am also powerful.
Take no notice of their threats and do not be intimidated.
35Who will be the one to remove us from the love of Christ?

In the words of St.

6.1 Peter 4:14If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, consider yourself blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you; otherwise, consider yourself cursed.

8.Romans 5:3-5 (New International Version) Moreover, we take pleasure in our sorrows because we are aware that pain generates perseverance;4perseverance produces character; and character produces hope.

1 & 2 James 1:3-4 It is pure delight, dear brothers and sisters, whenever you are confronted with trials of many kinds,3because you know that the testing of your faith creates perseverance, which you should cherish.

I will appear shortly, according to Revelation 3:11.

The term “persecution” is a powerful one.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are being persecuted, pray to God for the strength and wisdom to do the right thing.

The scriptures listed above are only a handful of the thousands of passages that may be found in the Bible.

It will serve as a reminder to us that in times of misery and despair, we should put our faith in God rather than our own eyes and hearts, and that we should forgive our adversaries.

Our worldly misery and pain are fleeting and transient. We will not be here forever. To avoid becoming discouraged, keep up your zealous and grateful proclamation of faith, knowing that in the kingdom of God, our heavenly and eternal benefits await us!

What Does the Bible Say About Those Who Are Persecuted? – Matthew 5:10

Religion and the church used to have a significant effect on our culture. As a result, we are now living in a post-Christian civilization. With an increasing number of people claiming no religious connection, items such as the Ten Commandments and nativity displays are being removed from public spaces. During this epidemic, we’ve seen official restrictions on church attendance, yet booze shops, strip clubs, and casinos have been deemed necessary. However, the persecution we face in the United States pales in comparison to the persecution our brothers and sisters face across the world.

The Motive for the Persecution “Blessed are those who are persecuted for the cause of righteousness,” Jesus declares at the conclusion of the Beatitudes section of His renowned Sermon on the Mount.
5:10-11).
Persecution is the term used to describe suffering as a result of doing what is right.
Take note of the use of the term “you” over and over again.
“All who seek to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” according to 2 Timothy 3:12, “even to death.” “If they tormented me, they will also persecute you,” Jesus declared in John 15:20.
It’s something to be expected.
All you have to do to avoid persecution is live your life in the manner of the world, abandon your religion, and deny Christ.

(Matthew 5:12) As Jesus instructs, we should respond in the following manner when we are persecuted.

What is our retaliatory response?

Their actions included spitting in His face, pulling off his beard, punching him, beating him, and nailing Him on a cross.

“Father, pardon them since they are unaware of what they are doing,” He added.

(Acts 5:41).

However, this does not imply that we take pleasure in suffering, but rather that we find delight in the midst of it.

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I take pleasure in my shortcomings, in insults, in trials, in persecutions, and in difficulties of every kind.

12:9-10).

5:12).

The majority of the disciples died in the manner of a martyr.

The term “martyr” comes from the Greek word “witness,” which means “witness to the truth.” Stephen’s witness, Saul of Tarsus, was present when Stephen was stoned, and he witnessed the execution.

The gospel will not only endure, but will flourish in our culture!

Persecution leads to the development of our religious beliefs.

Our hardships, according to Romans 5:3, build persistence, character, and hope in our hearts.

2).

The Benefits of Persecution “.because great is your recompense in heaven,” says the Bible (Mt.

Persecution serves as a reminder of who we are and where we are headed!

Our salvation is certain!

The unbelieving exists solely for the sake of this world; that is all they have.

“Behold, I am coming swiftly, and My recompense is with Me, to distribute to each person according to his or her labor” (Rev.

Are you being persecuted because of your religious beliefs?

If you have never encountered the devil, it is likely that you are traveling in the same direction as he is. The Bible states in 2 Timothy 2:12, “If we survive, we will also rule with him; if we reject Him, He will reject us as well.”

How should a Christian respond to persecution?

QuestionAnswer There is no doubt that persecution is an unavoidable part of living a Christian life in today’s world. Persecution of Christians is unavoidable: the apostle Paul warned that “everyone who wishes to live a holy life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). In response to their persecution of Him, Jesus stated that they would also punish His disciples (John 15:20). Because the world despises Christ, Jesus made it quite clear that people who follow him will be hated by the world.

The world, on the other hand, believes that Christians do not belong to it, which is why it engages in Christian persecution (see John 15:18–19).
We are motivated by the love of God and the pursuit of holiness, whereas the world is motivated by the desire for sin and the pursuit of pleasure.
It is important for Christians to learn to appreciate the importance of suffering, and even to take pleasure in it, but not in a showy manner, but rather quietly and humbly, for persecution has immense spiritual worth.
Paul mentioned a number of things he had given up in order to further the cause of Christ in his speech.
(Philippians 3:10).
Second, in all honesty, Christian persecution is beneficial to those who follow Christ.
Trials and persecution help to improve the character of Christians in the same way that steel is tempered in the forge.

The ability to be hostile comes naturally; yet, Christlikeness results in love and blessing in the face of bad resistance.

Instead, he placed his confidence in the One who is fair and justiable” (1 Peter 2:23).

Conflict may bring God’s loyal children together in a way that is both encouraging and supporting, something they would not have experienced otherwise.

There’s nothing quite like a traumatic event to spur us on to greater levels of brotherly affection.

We can express our gratitude to God for His mercy and patience with us.

In addition, we might pray for those who would accuse, mistreat, or otherwise harm us (2 Corinthians 11:24; Romans 10:1). Questions concerning the Christian Life (return to top of page) What should a Christian do in the face of persecution?

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What does the Bible say about persecution?

Blessed. Resilient. I was loved and comforted. These are hardly the first thoughts that spring to me when I think of Christians who are being persecuted. To be really honest, I prefer to think of them as forgotten individuals who are depressed, lonely, and damaged. The truth is that this group of Christ-followers perseveres because we are praying for them and because God keeps His promises to those who are loyal to Him. Many of our fellow Christians are subjected to a different type of persecution than that which the Bible describes as occurring during Jesus’ lifetime.

And it appears that the issue is becoming worse by the day.

Take a look at these Bible verses as we get closer to the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church to gain a better understanding of how God perceives persecution – and how we should approach it, as well.

1. Strong, even in weakness

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I take pleasure in my shortcomings, in insults, in trials, in persecutions, and in difficulties of every kind. Because while I am weak, I am also powerful. —2 Corinthians 12:10, New International Version Bless those who persecute you; bless rather than curse. —Romans 12:14, New International Version Christians in North Korea and Nigeria are subjected to unrelenting torture. Christians are frequently targeted by anti-Christian organizations that demolish churches, burn down homes, and physically assault individuals.

However, in these Bible verses, Paul offers words of encouragement to a variety of congregations in his day.

Not only did they have to put up with their persecutors, but they were also asked to bless those who had wronged them as well.

2. Included, not forgotten

But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be adopted as children of your heavenly Father as well. He causes his sun to rise on both the bad and the good, and he pours rain on both the righteous and the unjust, according to his will. —Matthew 5:44-45, New International Version Who is it that will be able to separate us from the love of Christ? Will there be trouble, or hardship, or persecution, or hunger, or nakedness, or danger, or a sword thrown?

No, through Christ’s love for us, we are more than conquerors in all of life’s circumstances.
As a result, individuals frequently experience feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Even in locations where it is perilous to congregate as a church, believers are bound together by their trust in Jesus Christ.
And, as frightening as that may sound, all Christians will endure persecution at some point in their lives.

In fact, God’s Word assures us that it will take place. However, when Christians are confronted with hostility to their beliefs, they may be confident that God sees them as righteous — and this provides them with the motivation to continue.

3. Comforted in God’s hands

But I trust in you, Lord;I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hands; save me from the clutches of my foes, from those who pursue me. — Psalm 31:14-15, NIVE ven though I walkthrough the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. — Psalm 23:4-5, NIVI t’s hard to say that persecuted Christians who have been physically and psychologically attacked are protected in the darkest valley.

The danger and the fear may be real, but so is God’s love for them.
It’s hard to comprehend why some are spared and some are not.
The early Christians — and the persecuted church today — know thatGod is always with them.
But it’s important to remember that those living through persecution do not ask for prayers for the abuse to stop.

4. Promised eternal glory

It is fortunate for those who are punished for doing what is right, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them. —Matthew 5:10, —Matthew 5:11, NIVBlessed are you when people despise you, when they exclude you, when they insult you, when they reject your name as bad, all because of the Son of Man. NIVBlessed are you when people reject your name as evil. It is appropriate to celebrate that day and leap for joy, for your recompense in heaven will be enormous.” This is because their forefathers handled the prophets in the same manner.

The life of a disciple of Jesus was never guaranteed to be simple.
But He also promises that, one day, everybody will be at peace with Him for all eternity.
Think about and pray for Christians who are experiencing difficulties on the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church on April 14.
More materials and prayer guides may be found on our website to assist you in your efforts to intercede for your fellow believers.

As Christians who are suffering for the cause of Christ, your prayers and support will be of tremendous comfort to those who are yearning for strength and endurance.

BIBLE VERSES ABOUT PERSECUTION

Sorted in alphabetical order by book title 2 Timothy 3:12 Yes, and those who will live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted for their beliefs. Jesus said in John 15:18 that if the world hates you, you should know that it hated me first, before it hated you. Matthew 5:44-But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who dislike you, and pray for those who despitefully use you and persecute you; for this is what the law says. Beloved, do not be surprised by the fiery trial that is about to befall you, as if some odd thing had occurred to you: 1 Peter 4:12-14-Do not be surprised by the fiery trial that is about to befall you, as if some weird thing had happened to you: (Continue reading.) 1 Peter 3:17-For if it be the will of God, it is preferable that you suffer for your good deeds rather than for your wicked deeds.

1 Peter 3:16-Having a clear conscience so that, when they speak ill of you as if you were evildoers, they will be ashamed of themselves.
Luke 6:22-Blessed are you when men detest you, and when they separate you from their company, and when they insult you, and when they put out your name as bad, for the sake of the Son of Man.
Romans 12:17-21 says that no one should repay ill for evil.
(Continue reading.) 2 Corinthians 4:8-12-We are plagued on every side, yet we are not worried; we are confused, but we are not in despair; we are perplexed, but we are not in despair (Read More.) Topics and verses are produced automatically based on user queries.
Some scriptural references and categories are courtesy of Open Bible.info, which is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license.

Christianity Promises Suffering and Persecution: Here’s How to Prepare

Suffering is something that no one loves. There is no one. The vast majority of people all throughout the world, on the other hand, know that pain is unavoidable in this flawed world. Western society, on the other hand, has exalted the ideals of safety, comfort, and convenience to such an extent that anything less is today seen to be comparable to a violation of human rights. In today’s society, the concept that individuals have a right to a secure and healthy existence has sadly permeated into the church.

Even among the more biblically devout Christians, however, there is an unstated belief that God has promised to shield them from pain in some way or another.

Suffering Is Normal in a Fallen World

Suffering is considered normal in the Bible. Having a fallen world is a source of some of our misery, and this type of suffering is experienced by both Christians and non-Christians. Suffering is considered normal in the Bible. Having a fallen world is a source of some of our misery, and this type of suffering is experienced by both Christians and non-Christians. In response to Adam and Eve’s sin against God, the physical universe itself was prone to corruption and decay (Rom. 8:18–22), as well as spiritual corruption and decay.

Modern science and technology, to be sure, have progressed to the point where we are able to protect ourselves from some of the repercussions of corruption and decay in the environment.
Hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes strike people all across the world, with no regard for whether they are Christians or not, and we have no way of preventing them from happening.
The sinfulness of men and women adds to this bleak image of human violence and oppression, resulting in crime, war, and oppression becoming a part of life everywhere on the planet as a result of the fall of man and woman.
Although God, in his amazing mercy, protects us from many of the repercussions of the Fall in our world, there is little question that we are protected from many of the effects of the Fall in our world.

Although he never promises in his Word that he will shield us from bodily harm or disease, he does enable us to die in our own way. When you live in a fallen world, pain like this is just a regular part of everyday existence.

Suffering Is Promised for Christians

For followers of Jesus, on the other hand, the image is even more depressing. Persecution and suffering are actually promised to us in the Bible as a result of our faith. The world is in a state of revolt against the Creator. When God appeared as a man in the form of Jesus Christ, the world responded by assassinating him as a result of its hatred for him. Jesus promised us that the world will treat us the same way that it treated him when he came to earth (John 15:20, ESV). The early followers of Jesus, at Jerusalem (Acts 8:1), Galatia (Gal.

1:29), Thessalonica (1 Thess.
10:32).
Paul was quite clear in stating that this was something that should be expected by anybody who follows Jesus (2 Tim.
Suffering and adversity are shown in the Bible as typical aspects of a Christian’s everyday existence.
Because of the Christian foundation of Western civilisation, along with democratic freedoms and a long history of rule of law, Western Christians have been mostly left alone in their pursuit of their religion.
However, there are some indications that this protected status may be eroding in the near future.
At the moment, being a follower of Jesus means losing your job and being ostracized by your family, at the at least, in Islamic, Hindu, and Communist countries throughout the world.
These things are being experienced right now by our brothers and sisters in Christ all throughout the world.

How to Prepare for the Reality of Suffering as a Christian

Here are three considerations that might help you prepare for such a fate:

First and first, Christian employees must examine their own hearts, looking for any attitude of entitlement that may exist. It is necessary for them to be prepared to “share in suffering for the sake of the gospel through the power of God,” as Paul urged Timothy (2 Tim. 1:8, ESV). We need to share the gospel in the same way that Jesus did, by making the cost of discipleship clear (Luke 9:57–62). They will do this not by cultivating stoicism or asceticism, but by concentrating long and hard on “the surpassing worth [of knowing Christ Jesus]” (Phil. 3:8, ESV), who is better, more valuable, and more delightful than anything we lose by following him. People who have been given a true understanding of what it means to follow Jesus and who have considered the consequences of their decision will be far more stable followers. Moreover, should we be concerned that such a somber portrayal of the gospel may deter people from accepting Christ, we must keep two things in mind. First and first, we are presenting Jesus, not a comfortable existence, and Jesus is far superior to all of the nice things this world has to offer together. Second, it is the power of the Holy Spirit, not our appealing packaging of the gospel, that leads people to Jesus
Thus, we must address the issue of suffering properly in our quick follow-up with new believers.

They must love their persecutors and pray for their well-being (Matt. 5:43–47)
They must renounce any intention to take revenge (Rom. 12:14–21)
They must trust God in the midst of their suffering and respond by proactively doing good (1 Peter 4:19)
They must use their experience to help others (1 Peter 4:19)
They must use their experience to help others (1 Peter 4:19). “Rejoice in proportion to your participation in Christ’s sufferings” (1 Peter 4:13)
“Rejoice in proportion to your share in Christ’s sufferings” (1 Peter 4:13)

Our joy in suffering as followers of Jesus does not come from a desire to enjoy pain, but rather from the fact that Jesus is so deserving in our eyes and hearts that we take pleasure in being associated with him. All pain and suffering are just transient. It is little in comparison to the majesty that awaiting us (2 Cor. 4:16). All anguish and suffering will be erased from existence once and for all in that paradise of glory (Rev. 21:4). Zane Pratt is the Vice President of Training for the International Monetary Fund.

10 Key Bible Verses on Persecution

1. 2 Timothy 3:11–12

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2. John 15:19–20

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3. Matthew 5:10–12

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4. Mark 10:29–30

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5. Revelation 2:10–11

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6. 2 Corinthians 12:9–10

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7. Galatians 4:29

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8. 1 Thessalonians 3:3–4

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9. Matthew 10:16–18

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10. 1 Peter 4:12–14

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What does the Bible say about persecution?

1. Strong, even in weakness

2. Included, not forgotten

3. Comforted in God’s hands

4. Promised eternal glory

BIBLE VERSES ABOUT PERSECUTION

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