PERSECUTION

“Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
(2 Tim 2:12) The Bible emphasizes that the people of God will endure persecution as a result of speaking truth and for living righteous lives. Does it make you wonder if you are doing all you should if you never suffer persecution as a Christian?
Jesus said, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. But be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to local councils and flog you in their synagogues. All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another.” (Mt 10:16-17, 22-23)
“If the world hates you,” Jesus said, “keep in mind that it hated me first.” (Jn 15:18) “Anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God.” (Jn 16:2) Paul was stoned and dragged out of a city, supposing he was dead (Acts 14:19). When writing to the church at Corinth (II Cor 11:23-27), he listed many ways he had suffered persecution. If anyone “suffers as a Christian, he should not be ashamed but should glorify God on this behalf.” (I Pet 4:12,16)
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