We don't exactly print this on t-shirts to sell in the gift shops!
But what a gift to so many in the early church who did suffer violent persecution. We forget that in this country, in this time and place, but untold souls have been killed for their faith. The Gospels gave them a tremendous gift -- they could go forward in peace, without anxiety, completely dependent on Christ in their moment of trial, trusting that the Holy Spirit was present and at work, and that enduring through the midst of their trial would bring them salvation. It reminds me of Daniel's 3 friends who are about to be thrown into a fiery furnace. They are uncertain if they are to be saved, but they will not bow a knee to a false God regardless, because they believe that what they are doing is right.
So much of this is exactly that -- a reminder that our faith is right, and despite the world turning against us, it is worth it to endure for the sake of Christ. The Kingdom of God is bigger than this world, bigger than this life, and we are wise to choose that, regardless of circumstances, that we may attain the laurel wreath of glory that transcends any honor this world might offer.
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