Growing up in the era of the 80’s and 90’s the very thought of Christians being persecuted seemed remote, distant and foreign to me. Of course I read about persecution from the Scriptures, historical accounts, such as Foxes Book of Martyrs or Jesus Freak, and through foreign missionaries who would always share and harrowing tale or two. However for me, and most of America, the reality of being a Christian and facing persecution was unimaginable bordering on hysterical fantasy.
Yet since 2001 the global community, and certainly the United States, has experienced a series of social, economic and spiritual shifts that have also ushered in a cycle of cause and effect that is reshaping the lives of Christians globally. What were once considered isolated and remote accounts of people being persecuted for their Christian faith has spread like an uncontrollable wildfire across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and now is smoldering within Europe and North America.
In light of the changing circumstances facing every person, who consider themselves part of the global Body of Christ, is the question of how do we prepare? While Christians in heavily persecuted regions have long ago learned how to prepare spiritually, and naturally, for such a difficult and dangerous reality we, in the United States, must also spiritually adjust for such changes and the uncomfortable reality of persecution within our own land.
“But I say unto you, whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (Matthew 5:39)
Over many years of study, and debate, some have interpreted Jesus’ words as a call for pacifism while others have understood His words within a different context. Either way the reality of being insulted, mocked and persecuted is an expectation every Christian must live with. Therefore, when we face such trials and tribulations we must also make such occasions to exhibit Jesus, with us, and His Holy Spirit illuminating our witness.
Oswald Chambers once said, “Matthew 5:39 reveals the humiliation of being a Christian.” [1] and naturally when faced with hardship we must consider appropriate counter actions to off-set great injustices. But let me challenge us to reflect on what is at the heart of Chamber’s thoughts by considering the following approach: Before we take any action we must allow the Holy Spirit to first spiritually prepare our hearts, minds and wills so our actions will be pure, blessed, just and reflect Jesus’ Kingdom heart.
These viagra fast shipping things generally give rise to erectile dysfunction. When a man has the inability to reach an tadalafil buy canada erection, or he may not be able to sustain his erection enough to ejaculate. The rise of online pharmacies has ensured that viagra for sale india people can conveniently purchase prescription drugs and medications from the comforts of your home without anyone disturbing you. Whiplash injuries are the tragic cheap levitra tablet result of front or rear-end collisions. When you consider Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount He doesn’t just address a list of do this and not that. Jesus powerful address compels His disciples to adopt the attitude, and action, of going the second mile. Any Christian would be hard pressed to find Jesus’ words saying, Once you have fulfilled this checklist you don’t have to concern yourself with anything more. When we insist upon addressing any social, moral, political issue, concern, adversity or persecution, in our own will and spirit, we will always get in the way of the Jesus’ Kingdom plans and purposes.
The purpose of this reflection is to address and answer the question, How can we spiritually prepare for the uncomfortable reality of persecution? My conclusion? Every Christian must advocate for a Christ-centered response, and approach, that resists self and embraces the Holy Spirit’s guidance for Jesus’ will and purposes.
Every Christian is called to resist evil and speak boldly by standing strong, in the faith of Jesus’ Word, when we are met with evil and persecution. But to stand strong also means we have first spiritually prepared for the challenging seasons ahead. We cannot assume we will be able to naturally stand, or have the equipping tools, to resist such adversity unless we commit to actions that are designed to honor to Jesus and His glory. This was part of the powerful testimony the early church lived and realized the Lord’s honor is what was at stake in their lives, not their own honor.
While Christians, in our nation, face the unsettling reality of persecution we must spiritually prepare by not looking for other people to do what we are responsible to do for ourselves. Every Christian, of every age, is looking for justice; and while we contemplate what are just and righteous responses, to persecution, let us commit to the spiritual “heavy lifting” of prayer, fasting and holding firm to the truth of God’s Holy Word. These tried and true approaches are the foundational pieces that will prepare us for the days ahead as we address and rebuff any persecution we may encounter.
Blessings – Pastor JOSHUA
[1] Chambers, O. (1986). My utmost for his highest: Selections for the year. Grand Rapids, MI: Oswald Chambers Publications; Marshall Pickering.