In the wake of recent persecutions and executions of people for their faith, Christians around the globe are examining themselves. They are wondering, “Is that going to come to my country, to my city, to my neighborhood?” They are asking themselves, “Is it possible that I might face something similar in the not-too-distant future?” They are contemplating, “What will I do if that kind of persecution comes to my house and to my family?”
Of course, persecution against Christians is nothing new—it has been happening since the very beginning. Christians have suffered at the hands of Jews, heathens, political powers, religious extremists and even fellow Christians. Believing that Jesus of Nazareth is the Son of God is highly offensive to millions. Teaching that there is only one God riles religious radicals into a frenzy of hatred. Holding forth the Bible as the only divine revelation on earth and the only means to eternal life after death enrages violent animosity toward believers. But, this should not surprise us.
Paul declared, “All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Tim. 3:12). We should not think that we are exempt from that, since we live in a different country and different era than the apostle Paul. Persecution against followers of Christ is a theme that runs throughout the New Testament, having its beginning in the very first sermon from the mouth of Jesus Himself (Matt. 5:10-12). Of course, persecution comes in a variety of forms—from being hated, ostracized, insulted and scorned (Luke 6:22), to being denied and refused the basic necessities of life (Rev. 13:16-17), to being physically tortured and killed (Rev. 13:15; Acts 14:19-20; 12:2). So, what is a Christian to do?
Consider some instructions from Peter to Christians who were suffering for the name of Christ (1 Pet. 4:14-16). Do not return “evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing” (3:9). “Refrain [your] tongue from evil…Turn away from evil and do good” (3:11). Remember that “the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous” (3:12). “Do not be afraid of their threats” (3:14). “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts” (3:15). “Be serious and watchful in your prayers” (4:7). “Have fervent love for one another” (4:8). “Be hospitable to one another” (4:9). “Minister to one another” (4:10). Consider the example of Christ and His suffering for us (2:20-25; 3:18-4:1), and “rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings” (4:13). Do “not be ashamed, but…glorify God in this matter” (4:16). Keep on committing your soul “to Him in doing good” (4:19). Cast “all of your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (5:7). Trust that He will “perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you” (5:11). Let us put our trust in God!