Persecution

Whether burned alive for Nero's entertainment, tortured during the middle ages, exiled to a Siberian gulag, or called names by a hateful junior-high peer group, Christians have always faced persecution. While Christians and none Christians alike suffer unjust treatment, persecution implies an International and systematic infliction of suffering or hardship because of a persons beliefs. In Jerimiah 9:14-20:3; 37:1-38:15 now Pashure heard what Jeremiah the prophet was saying, So he arrested Jeremiah the prophet and had him whipped. In 1 Kings 22:7-28 we read How many times must I demand that you only speak the truth? So Miciah told him. King Ahab of Israel then ordered Arrest Miciah. Sometimes believers are persecuted simply for speaking the truth. Our Lord himself said in John 15:17-21 The people of the world will hate you because you belong to me, for they don't know God who sent me. Persecution comes from those who are ignorant of God and his will. In Matthew 15:9 Their worship is a farce, for they replace God `s commands with there own man made teachings. In Galations 5:11 we read The fact that I am still being persecuted proves that I am still preaching salvation. The bold message of Christ threatens those who believe in there own righteousness. But as Christian we must indeed respond to all forms of persecution in Psalm 69:1-36 Save me oh God those who hate me without cause are more numerous than the hairs on my head. Gods people must turn to prayer in times of persecution. In Acts 14:19-22 They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, apparently dead, But believers stood around him, he got up and went back into the city. Paul's courageous response to persecution enabled him to encourage others. In Phillipians 1:27-30 You have been given the privilege of suffering for him. But in Matthew 5:11 we read God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers, But in 1 Peter 4:13 we read Instead, be very glad, because these trials will make you partners with Christ in his suffering, and afterward you will have the wonderful joy of sharing his glory. The Bible encourages us to see the blessings of persecution. In Luke 6:27-36 we read thatwe should Pray for the happiness of those who curse you. A supernatural love that allows believers at actually pray for those who persecute them. in Revelation 21:4 it states He will remove all there sorrows. The hope that all suffering will be replaced by the joy of heaven enables believers to endure. Gods promises to us are A\ God comforts all those who are persecuted 1 Corinthians 1:5 B\ Those who remain faithful in persecution will receive great rewards Revelation 2:10. So keep on looking up to the light which is Jesus Christ and remember that Jesus loves you and has a plan for your life. Sincerely in Christ. Clive (Matched_1)