A Few Thoughts: Christian Persecution and its Relevance to American Christians

Christian persecution is a touchy subject for many American citizens these days. We hear stories of brothers and sisters in far away countries being martyred or imprisoned for their faith in Jesus, and we feel sad, angry, or hurt, like somebody has wronged us, or maybe act surprised that this kind of cruelty is being carried out. Too many of us neglect the teachings of Christ that say, “Remember the word that I said unto you, A servant is not greater than his lord. If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you,” (John 15:20) and honestly believe that we can truly follow God without any opposition. Reading about the martyrdom and torture of early Christians under the Roman emperors instills in me fear for my fellow present-day American believers. These brothers and sisters of old believed the words of Christ with their entire being: their bodies, minds, and souls, and they bled and died for it. Should we feel surges of anger or grief at martyrdom? Should we be surprised by persecution? If so, it brings to mind other questions. What is the value of persecution from the Christian’s perspective? Are we truly honoring God if we have no oppression from the world? Are we enjoying the fellowship of the world instead of perfect communion with God? Are we trying to serve two masters? I believe that if one does not experience some kind of oppression, not necessarily severe, he is not living a life honoring God. “What harmony exists between Christ and Belial, or what do a believer and an unbeliever have in common?” (II Corinthians 2:15) How can the Christian life coexist with the worldly one? They cannot. Therefore, extol persecution! Rejoice when you hear of brothers giving all for the Name! For they have surrendered what is merely temporary, and instead received that which is eternal, and they have done it with unadulterated joy, because they were found worthy to suffer for the Christ.