Who Signs Up To Be Persecuted?
Jesus says it this way:
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).
“If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:20, NIV).
Paul writes it this way:
In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12, NIV).
Peter explains it this way:
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you….However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name (1 Peter 4:14, 16, NIV).
These are just a few of the verses in the Bible that speak to a truth that is remarkably clear in Scripture: Christians will suffer and be persecuted for being followers of Jesus.
That may lead you to ask an interesting question: Who signs up for that? Who would choose to follow Jesus if they know that one of the results is persecution and suffering?
There are at least two answers to those questions. One answer you might expect and one you might not expect.
Answer 1: People who choose to follow Jesus who know that suffering and persecution will come are people who understand that the “positives” of Christ in their lives far outweigh the “negatives” of suffering and persecution.
Having my sin forgiven, knowing that heaven awaits when this life is over, walking with Jesus in a fulfilling and joy-filled relationship now in this life, and experiencing the abundant life that following Jesus brings are all far better than the cost of suffering, especially since the persecution is temporary and the next life is eternal. You may have expected that answer. But, it is still very true.
Answer 2: People who sign up for following Jesus learn that in the ways of God (which is drastically different than the ways of the world) suffering and persecution are also blessings from God. I know…I know…you say, “No Way!” But hang with me for a moment.
Look back up at 1 Peter 4:14 above. Notice what Peter writes. “If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed.” Followers of Jesus are blessed if they suffer and are persecuted for the name of Jesus. How?
The rest of that verse says: “for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” God walks with those who are being persecuted in a unique, fulfilling, exciting way. God’s presence is very real to those who suffer for Jesus. And, God’s presence is always a blessing. In a way that only those who are suffering experience, God encourages, strengthens, and yes, blesses. That answer you may not have expected.
Are you a follower of Jesus? If so, you either are being or will be persecuted. But take heart, you will be blessed as God sustains you and sees you through it.