Persecution in biblie times and early church

Persecution in the Bibleand Early Church

Dr. Robert PattonMissionary to Suriname,

South America

The situation today

82% of all martyrs for faith are Christian

166,000 were killed in 2003 – by now, we believe the number is 200,000

200,000,000 are under threat of death, imprisonment or torture; 400,000,000 are discriminated against in addition

Do not be surprised

The Bible, especially the New Testament, was written by persecuted believers for persecuted believers.

It deals especially with persecution for righteousness.

Peter warns 1 Pet. 4:12 Beloved, think it

not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as thou some strange thing happened to you 13. But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, martyr for Christ killed by Nazis WWII

Discipleship means allegiance to the suffering Christ, and it is therefore not at all surprising that Christians should be called upon to suffer...

When Christ calls a man, He calls him to die

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Bonhoeffer: Cheap grace

[It] is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, communion without confession, absolution without personal confession.

Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.

Jozef Ton’s comments

God plans to populate the universe with those who resemble Jesus Christ

True believers will share the responsibility with Christ and reflect His glory

We are on earth to test us and develop the necessary character

God’s plan for the future for the believer

Rev. 1:[6] And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Rev. 5:[10] And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

Jozef Ton’s concepts

Trials and testings are to prepare us for eternity – will we pass the test?

He provides what we need, but we need to permit Him to work in our lives

He wants to make us kings like He is King, but will only entrust such positions to them who obey Him as He obeyed His Father

Cheap grace and God’s grace

God’s grace: It is the grace made dear by the life of Christ that was sacrificed to purchase man's redemption.

Cheap grace arose out of man's desire to be saved, but to do so without becoming a disciple.

Bonhoeffer’s comment

only he who believes is obedient, and only he who is obedient believes

He places emphasis on true belief demonstrating itself in obedience to God’s commands, and not simply intellectual acquiescence

Persecution purifies the church

We need cross-carrying messengers of a cross-centered gospel

The promise of Christ

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses (martyrs) unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth

Marturia – witness = martyr…

God’s ultimate goal for man is dominion with Him

Rom. 8:[29] For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

Heb. 2:[10] For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

God’s goal

Mt. 24:[47] Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.

Lk. 12:[44] Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.

Man was no longer fit to rule after the fall

With the fall, God’s plan was thwarted as man now had a sin nature, and his spirit became unable to communicate with God

At the cross, Jesus basically restored God’s plan

God is currently testing mankind

God has chosen the world as the place for both developing and testing man’s character

He is testing man’s obedience and his allegiance to his Creator

There are several names for God’s final purpose

Obtaining an inheritance Reigning with Christ Being glorified with Christ Having treasures in heaven Rewards in heaven

Suffering and martyrdom are part of God’s plan

They develop the character man needs to be fit to rule

They test the quality of his work as well as his loyalty to the King

But it is more than simply suffering.

All people suffer at one time or another. Most people become sick. All people die. We all suffer loss of loved ones, etc.

Persecution is suffering for righteousness sake – and this is highly prized and rewarded by God

Jesus – beatitutes

Mt. 5:[10] Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.[11] Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.[12] Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you

Man created in God’s image

Gen. 1:[26] And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. [27] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Man’s creation is important

Man is created in the image of God, and has intrinsic worth and respect and dignity

God works in creation on man’s behalf

God’s character founds the basis for law

He expects us to act toward others as He acts toward us

This remains true after the fall

Genesis 9:[5] And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man.[6] Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man


God is concerned with minimal civil rights to vulnerable groups Life To be unharmed The necessities of life - we should not

be denied them Protection of personal property


Humans have rights because God created them, protects them, and demands justice for them

Protection against physical abuse, abortion, being taken hostage

Man, created in the image of God, has intrinsic worth, respect and dignity

When we do not respect man, we do not respect the God in whose image he is created!

Because Islam and communism do not acknowledge that man is created in the image of God, they have no basis for individual human rights, and do not give them

Their idea is rights given to groups, not individuals intrinsically

The right to be wrong

God does not want a religion by compulsion, but from the heart

He condemns the false religions around Israel once they are in the land, but does not send them on “holy crusades” to wipe out other religions, but to witness to the living God

God is a trinity, and the God of relationships.

Men have a basic equality although differences exist – as in the trinity

The trinity relates to each other Thus rights exist in the context of

relationships This includes the right to worship

in relationship with others.


The creation is the basis for equality (for example, man and woman)

However, as the trinity is not identical, so also the individuals are not identical


We also have freedom. We have wills that are freed to

chose the right, though often we choose the wrong, especially as sinners

The full expression of religious freedom has been adversely impacted by the fall

We long for unrestricted freedom of worship and propagation of faith

This often results in persecution .Religious freedom is a good

thing, but in a fallen world, it may indicate that the believer has slacked off in his zeal to reconcile a hostile world

What about our rights?

There is a difference between public rights, which we should fight for, and private rights, which sometimes we should yield

We may be called on to give up some of our rights privately

What about our rights? However, this does not mean that

we insist that others give up their rights which we have voluntarily yielded for the sake of Christ

We see that Paul sometimes used his rights of Roman citizenship

We must see what advances God’s kingdom, and not our own plans

Creation was good, but free will allowed a usurper to rise

Isaiah 14:[12] How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations![13] For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:

Creation was good, but free will allowed a usurper to rise

Isaiah 14:[14] I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.[15] Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

Lucifer, the most glorious angel created by God, rises up to attempt to take God’s place in the hearts of man

There is a fight for the loyalty of men

Gen. 3:[1] Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?[2] And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:


[3] But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.[4] And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:[5] For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.


[6] And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.[7] And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.

Satan lies and lures mankind into rebellion against God

Man rebels against His creator, and follows the advice of the rebel satan

The god of this world begins his work with self as the dominant principle not only in his own being, but in the lives of mankind, who now are following him

The fall and suffering

The basic person who created the problems on earth is man, who was not satisfied with being the image bearer but sought equality with God

The serpent will be defeated by the seed of the woman, but He will suffer pain in the process

The fall…

The woman will experience Pain in childbirth Strain in her relationship with her

husband, where she seeks to control him instead of allowing him to rule

The fall and suffering The man was created to be

able to work, but now the work will be frustrated It will be accompanied by pain

Ultimately death will cause failure in further work

Death is an act of mercy to prevent sin to multiply out of control

The fall and suffering

Death is also spiritual and requires God’s intervention for restoration of fellowship

Our pain points us to God and the eternal, where our true fulfillment lies

The price of reconciling creation with God is pain and suffering

Adam and Eve separated from Eden

God created man with free will to freely choose or reject His love

Man is capable of real love, which requires freedom of choice

God created the universe knowing that man would spoil it but in redemption His glory would be seen.

And redemption would mean pain and suffering

The first religious persecution - Cain and Abel

The first between righteousness Abel and unrighteousness - Cain

It began at the first recorded formal worship service

It began in the context of the home itself

The first religious persecution - Cain and Abel God’s choice of word “crying out of

the ground” refers to the oppressed crying because they have been denied justice - and God hears

God judges, but His mark on Cain shows that even a murderer is not beyond God’s mercy and protection. The right to life is protected by God, even for those who do not deserve it.

Cain and Abel

We find a principle starting with Cain and Abel

Galatians 4:[28] Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.[29] But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

Although this refers to Ishmael and Isaac, it is a general principle that those living in the flesh persecute those living in the Spirit

Noah’s covenant

God delegates mankind the responsibility of being agents of God’s justice and upholders of the right to life

This right is in the hands of civil authorities, and not for personal revenge

Noah’s ark

God’s command to Noah

Gen. 9:[5] And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man.[6] Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

Lot persecuted

He was ignored and scoffed at by those in Sodom. They threatened to assault him sexually. Gen 19:9[9] And they said, Stand back. And they said again, This one fellow came in to sojourn, and he will needs be a judge: now will we deal worse with thee, than with them. And they pressed sore upon the man, even Lot, and came near to break the door.

Lot… 2 Peter 2

[7] And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:[8] (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)[9] The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished

Lot’s escape from Sodom

Insights from the Pentateuch

Lot rescued from persecution - 2 Peter 2:7-9

Lesson - persecution is not restricted to spiritual giants or mature believers

All claiming to follow God will be challenged to take a stand

Persecution of the righteous

2 Tim. 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution

This is a promise of God


.Abraham - true faith inevitably suffers, sacrifices & hopes. There were disappointments, pain and tears.

One of the times is when Ishmael mocked Isaac and God confirmed Sarah’s request that both Hagar and Ishmael be sent away. Then there was the offer of Isaac

Abraham offering Isaac


Isaac - especially problems with the Philistines. Life may be filled with stress, opposition and hardship.

He refuses to retaliate, and eventually has peace. He digs more wells

Joseph suffers for righteousness

He is sold as a slave by his own brothers

He is lied about by Potiphar’s wife The cupbearer of Pharaoh forgot

him Ultimately he triumphs – he never

lost faith in God, and God turns the curses of his enemies into blessings

Joseph sold by his brothers

Joseph tempted by Potiphar’s wife


Egypt & Israel – Israel suffers because they are

God’s people. Moses chose a life of hardship

to liberate his people, with suffering from both the Egyptians and from the Israelites themselves

Moses – Hebrews 11

[24] By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;[25] Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; [26] Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.

Israelite slaves in Egypt

Insights from the Pentateuch Every good gift comes from God Many blessings and curses are a

result of man’s response to God Some blessings and curses are a

result of God’s plans for man – e.g. Joseph

Blessings can become curses if we fail to glorify God-

In the long run, the sow-reap principle generally holds, but often not in the short term

Israel saw history as under the control of God Suffering is part of God’s plan of

chas-tisement and bringing His people to Himself

We must trust God, and place ourselves in His hands .Sin and suffering are not permanent .Suffering may be a fruit of continuing

sin Suffering can lead to repentance

and the glory of God

God used persecution in the book of Judges – 7 cycles

Blessing luxury Pride Sin Disaster Repentance

God in history

God also uses the enemies of Israel to chastise them and bring them back to Himself in the time of the kings.

Job – a witness to satan and angels as well as man

Job is upright, and the richest man in the East

God uses Job as an example of a true worshiper

Satan accuses Job of worshiping to get things, not because God is God

God permits Satan to test Job

Job as witness

Job loses all but blesses God Satan accuses him that he still has

his health Satan allowed to make him very ill Job still does not curse God Job’s three friends are sure that Job

is being punished for sin

Job as witness

Job maintains his innocence God shows His power to Job, and

Job repents and trusts God Job prays for his friends God restores Job’s blessings

Job is allowed to suffer because of his righteousness.

We can learn from his friends that suffering people need our presence more than our advice. Sometimes we intensify their problems

Job’s friends all believe that he is sinning, and when he repents, his fortunes will be restored – But they were wrong

There is mystery in suffering - often we will not know why.

Job’s wife testing Job – Curse God and die…


God answers not “why” but “who” = it is almighty God that permits suffering. Will we trust Him?

If God does not show you what to repent of, then probably that is not His goal for your suffering

Punishment without conviction is vindictive, as is punishment after confession and repentance


Advice: Go before God, seeking His face and asking the Holy Spirit to examine your heart and life.

If God does not convict you of sin or sincere confession and repentance does not remedy the situation, something else is going on.

Then love and trust God, knowing that this response will reveal Satan’s accusations to be lies.


It is ironic that those friends were called upon to repent, and that they had not suffered, while Job spoke rightly about God, but did suffer.

All who are godly shall suffer persecution….


Job’s suffering was the direct result of his faithfulness to God

This is against Word of Faith teachings.

If we insist on finding the meaning of every isolated event, we will make mistakes. We cannot see the “big picture” but God does – e.g. Joseph

Persecution in the Psalms

The psalms have a great deal to say about persecutionThe psalms express the emotions of Israel, the people of God who were often oppressed by the wicked around themThe psalms also give much information on the messiah, the Suffering servant

The messiah – Psalm 22

[6] But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.[7] All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head saying,[8] He trusted on the LORD that he would deliver him: let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him

Psalm 22 cont’d

[13] They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion.[14] I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels.[15] My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.

Psalm 22 cont’d

[16] For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have enclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.[17] I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me.[18] They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture

Yet there is victory at the end of the psalm.

Messianic suffering in the Psalms

Psalm 31:[5] Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth

Psalm 34:[19] Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. [20] He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken.


Psalm 41:[9] Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.

Psalm 44: 44:[22] Yea, for thy sake are we killed all the day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.


Psalm 69:[21] They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

Psalm 118:[22] The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.[23] This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.

Imprecatory Psalms

These can be viewed not as vindictive, but as the persecuted crying for righteousness. They also remind us of our own sins

Some see them as the prayers of our sinless High Priest on behalf of the persecuted

Proverbs – sometimes the righteous are persecuted

Proverbs 29:[10] The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul.

Ecclesiastes also shows that on this earth, sometimes righteousness does not prevail.

Proverbs shows our responsibility to the poor

We have a responsibility to help the weak and helpless.

Proverbs 29:[7] The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.

Proverbs and the poor

Proverbs 31:[8] Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.[9] Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

The Bible has many examples of the righteous suffering

1.Moses threatened with stoning by his own people

2. David threatened by Saul on several occasions

3. 85 priests of Nob killed by Doeg and Saul

4. Many prophets hunted and killed by Jezebel

5. Elijah persecuted by Ahab & Jezebel

Righteous suffering

6. Micaiah imprisoned by King Ahab 7. Elisha threatened by death by the

king 8. Hanani imprisoned by King Asa 9. Zachariah stoned at the order of

King Joas 10. Jeremiah suffered greatly from both

kings and false prophets

Righteous suffering

11. Uriah the prophet is caught and executed

12. Manasse killed much innocent blood - traditionally Isaiah the prophet is one of his victims

13. Daniel, Shadrack, Meshak and Abednego

Jesus castigated the leaders re their treatment of prophets

Luke 11:[47] Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them...[49] Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute:[50] That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;

Isaiah – reasons for suffering

Punishment for sin – like the death of Sennacharib & destruction of the Assyrian army

Discipline for training/education – the healing of Hezekiah from his abscess

Isaiah – reasons for suffering

Testing the relationship with God and loyalty, as in the example of Job

Restoration of creation through suffering, pain and death as through the Suffering Servant

The coming messiah – Isaiah 50

[5] The Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back.[6] I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.[7] For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed

Those who follow the messiah shall suffer too

Isaiah 50: [10] Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God

They will suffer, but need to trust the Lord

The messiah – Isaiah 52

[13] Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.[14] As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men:

The messiah – Isaiah 53

[2] For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.[3] He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

The messiah – Isaiah 53 [4] Surely he hath borne our griefs, and

carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.[5] But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.[6] All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all

The messiah dies [7] He was oppressed, and he was

afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.[8] He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.

The messiah dies

[9] And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.

The messiah is victorious

:[10] Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.[11] He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

The messiah is victorious

[12] Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Lessons from Isaiah

Purposes of suffering Punishment for sin .Discipline for training & education .Establishing one’s relationship and

living for God .How God accomplishes His

purposes in the world

Lessons from Isaiah

God works through the suffering servant who suffers for others sins

Those who follow Him will also suffer & self-sacrifice

Look to the power of God

Lessons from Jeremiah Jeremiah - faced lots of persecution. He

was rejected by His village His family The false prophets The religious leaders The corrupt kings and princes

Worse than the physical was the mocking because he was preaching God’s word.

Jeremiah’s mourning Jerusalem’s destruction

Lessons from Jeremiah Jeremiah knew from the beginning

that his message would be rejected

.God promised to be with him and not forsake him

.He believed that he was preaching the words of God – thus the people were rejecting God and not himself

He had an intense love of the people

Lessons from Daniel

God is sovereign in history and will fulfill His purposes

God shares His authority with man

We must remain faithful to death - God will test us

God’s ultimate goal is to find men and women to rule with him throughout eternity

Daniel’s testings with his friends

Eating the king’s food – probably offered to idols, and breaking the Jewish food regulations – yet they were healthier

The fiery furnace for Daniel’s friends

The lion’s den

Lessons from Daniel This is the kind of people which

God will trust to rule over the nations

They will obey God and live by His laws despite the cost

They will be faithful through trials, persecutions, and threats of death

The fiery furnace and Daniel’s three faithful friends

Daniel in the lion’s den

Lessons from Daniel They proclaim and honor the

sovereign rule of God in everything

They are immersed in the task of telling others about God, and leading them to Him. We see that God uses their trials to magnify Himself through their lives

Lessons from Daniel

They have a clear history knowing that loss of temporary goods or life for God’s sake is not a loss but a gain.

Their true fulfillment is in eternity

The saints shall rule in eternity

Daniel 7: [26] But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end.[27] And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.

Testing in Esther

Esther risks her life to save her people – if I perish, I perish

Mordecai was persecuted by Haman for failing to bow down – but ultimately victorious

Esther before Ahasueros

Other testing in the time of the kings

David, righteous and anointed by God, is pursued and persecuted by Saul yet saves his life

Uriah, honorable and righteous, is slain by David to cover up his sin with Uriah’s wife Bathsheba

David spares Saul’s life

Other testings

Naboth, a righteous man, (and probably his sons) is slain by the wicked king Ahab to get his property

Jezebel tried to kill Elijah Asa jailed Hanani when he rebuked

him for his alliance with Syria (2 Chron. 16:9)

Elijah rebuking Ahab & Jezebel after murdering Naboth

Other testing

Joash ordered the stoning of the high priest Zachariah who rebuked him for idol worship

Manasseh the king killed many innocent, including, according to tradition, the prophet Isaiah

Stoning Zachariah in the temple

Note what Jesus said in Mt. 23

[29] Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,[30] And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.[31] Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets

Note what Jesus said in Mt. 23

[34] Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:[35] That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar

The intertestamental period shows much suffering

Many righteous Jews were horribly tortured by Antiochus Epiphanes when they held onto their Jewish faith. There was a famous mother with seven sons, all of whom were martyred. Another old man, Eleasar, was faithful unto death.

Intertestamental period – concepts

God’s righteousness is seen at the judgment and resurrection of the righteous. The wicked are then punished

The righteous have been tested and found worthy of glories and more responsibilities in heaven

God is grieved by sin, which results in death = separation

God was grieved before the flood God was grieved in the wilderness

wanderings The Holy Spirit was grieved at the

rebellion of Israel Jesus Christ was grieved over

Jerusalem and Saul persecuting Christians

Does God suffer? Is He impassive?

God is not unstable emotionally. He cannot be forced to do anything.

But He chooses to suffer because He chooses to love

God revealed Himself through His Son, the incarnate Jesus Christ, who is the suffering servant

Jesus Christ – the suffering servant

God is able to relate to those who suffer. Bonhoeffer in prison: Only the suffering God can help

This is shown through Jesus Christ, who came into a suffering world.

He entered into our sorrows and suffering. Hunger, thirst, weariness.

Jesus Christ – the suffering servant

Jesus went to the cross simply because it was the Father’s will, not His own idea

Heb. 5:[7] Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;[8] Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;

God suffers… The cross is central in revealing

the nature of God. In the incarnation, God suffers. Even in the Old Testament God

suffers in His interactions with man

God suffers with us - sharing our pain

God suffers and gives

The trinity - giving and receiving from each other, depending upon each other, and offering them-selves to each other.

His plans are not achieved by force or power but by love and by self-giving - the cross.

God suffers and gives The self-giving God persuades

and invites - not forces Jesus came as an offering, a

sacrifice - which reveals the nature of God.

This shows how God’s people should live as well. - Phil 2:3-8

Have this mind in you…

Phil 2:[3] Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.[4] Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.[5] Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:[6] Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Have this mind in you…

Phil. 2:[7] But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:[8] And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Ways we present the gospel incorrectly

Our motives are unworthy – our glory rather than God’s

Our methods are unworthy – coercion by physical means,

moral constraint or psychological pressure

Our message is unworthy Misrepresentation

Jesus and discipleship – Sermon on the mount

Those who the world pities are really the fortunate Poor in spirit Mourn Meek Hunger and thirst for righteousness Merciful Pure in heart Peacemakers

Jesus and the beatitudes

God’s people do not suffer for their faith; they suffer for HIM - for the fulfillment of His purposes in the world

They are in the line of the prophets

They are not only to be Stoic, but to rejoice, and to love those who persecute them.

Joy in testings and persecution

Mt. 5:[10] Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.[11] Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.[12] Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Jesus and the beatitudes

Like God gives light and rain to those who curse Him, so we are to bless those who persecute us.

We are in service to those who cause us the suffering.

Jesus – Sermon on the mount

Mt. 5:[43] Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.[44] But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Jesus – Sermon on the Mount

Mt. 5:[45] That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

Jesus and the beatitudes There are great promises to hold -

we are the possessors of the kingdom of heaven.

Suffering for the kingdom is expected from all God’s messengers. This is a sign that God is present in the ministry

Persecution is inevitable - sometimes not only silencing the message of the gospel, but the messenger too.

Sheep in the midst of wolves

Mt. 10[16] Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.[17] But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;[18] And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.

Jesus – Mt. 10 Mission and persecution go

together. There is always the shadow of the cross.

He Himself has sent us as defenseless sheep into the midst of wolves.

Thus survival is not the key issue - He too was like a sheep brought to the slaughter

Jesus – Mt. 10

Dangers can be in two directions: Fear and compromise Deliberately provoke authorities

and attract persecution We need wisdom (wise as

serpents and innocent as doves)

Jesus on persecution Mt:10-19-20 God promises to give us

wisdom how to speak Mt. 10:21-22 Even the family may turn

against us. The family is not the most important institution on earth - it is the church, which is God’s primary agent of change in the world. We become sons and daughters of Him.

In Mk. 3:31-35, Jesus shows that the Spiritual family of obedience is more important than the biological family.

Jesus on persecution Mt. 10

[19] But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.[20] For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.Wisdom for speaking

Jesus on persecution Mt. 10

[21] And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.[22] And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.

Betrayal by family

Spiritual family priority

Mk. 3:[31] There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.[32] And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.[33] And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren?

Spiritual family priority

Mk. 3:[34] And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren![35] For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother

Jesus on persecution

Persecution cannot separate the disciples from the care of God.

Lk. 21:[16] And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.[17] And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake.[18] But there shall not an hair of your head perish.[19] In your patience possess ye your souls

Jesus on persecution

Luke 21:17-19 They suffer, but are not

ultimately destroyed. Hold fast to the end.

Persecution will expose faith that is only mental assent.

Biblical responses to Persecution

Flight. But not just to avoid suffering.

The priority is on the mission of the kingdom of God above all else.

.Mt. 10:23 Go to other cities to spread the world [23] But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.

Jesus response on some occasions

Jn. 8:[59] Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.

Mt. 12:[14] Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.[15] But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all;

Jesus walked away sometimes

Lk 4:[29] And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong.[30] But he passing through the midst of them went his way

Sometimes Paul escaped

Act 9:[25] Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.

Acts 14:[5] And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,[6] They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about


Acts 9:25; 2 Cor. 11:23-24 Flight to fulfill the mission of Christ. Martyrdom can provide witness, but it can be better to stay alive to proclaim it: Acts 14:5-6

Jesus hid himself: Jn. 8:59; Mt. 12:14-15. His time had not yet come.

But do not run when obedience to God’s command would be jeopardized.


Fortitute: Stand firm unto death Fight - occasionally for legal rights.

Paul did so several times, unless this hinders the furtherance of the kingdom of God. He used Roman citizenship to avoid flogging and also to preserve the church at Philippi

Sometimes civil disobedience within guidelines is an option.

Jesus – Mt. 10

Speak openly for Christ. Mt. 10:26-27 [26] Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known.[27] What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops

Jesus – Mt. 10

Christ’s witnesses do not have survival as the main concern;

They cannot be silent. They can only be silenced.

Jesus – Mt. 10

Mt. 10:28-32 Bonhoeffer: The danger lies not in the judgment of man, but the judgment of God; not in the death of the body, but the eternal destruction of body and soul.

Those who are afraid of men have no fear of God, and those who have fear of God have no fear of man.

Jesus & Mt. 10 [28] And fear not them which kill the

body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. [29] Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [30] But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [31] Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Jesus – Mt. 10

The power of killers is limited to the body.

Since God will bring the body back to life, the power of the persecutors is temporary at best. Jn. 21:18

The real threat in persecution is that we may not be all that God expects of us. Mt. 10:29-31

Mt. 10:33-42 Four dangers for the believer in persecution

Denying Christ 33 Loving family more than Christ

34-37 Loving one’s own life more than

Christ 38-39 Refusing to receive those who

are wanted by authorities or mobs because of their witness for Christ 40-42

Danger #1 – Denying Christ

Mt. 10:[32] Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.[33] But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

Danger #2 – Loving family more than Christ

Mt. 10:[34] Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.[35] For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.[36] And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.

Danger #2 – Loving family more than Christ

Mt. 10:[37] He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me

Danger #3 – Loving one’s own life more than Christ

Mt. 10:[38] And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.[39] He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

Danger #4 – Not helping persecuted brethren

Mt. 10:[40] He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.[41] He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.

Danger #4 – Not helping persecuted brethren

Mt. 10:[42] And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

Mt. 16:21-28

[21] From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.[22] Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.

Peter’s reaction is satanic

[23] But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

Peter’s reaction – save yourself and don’t suffer. This was the satanic test in the wilderness

Mt 16:24 ff

[24] Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.[25] For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

Will you save it by losing it for Jesus sake, or lose it trying to save it?

Mt 16:24 ff

[26] For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?[27] For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.

First the cross, then the crown

Jesus – Mt. 16:21-28

They must be prepared also to face possible death following their master

Crucifixion was a terrible punishment

Crucifixion was a state punishment - for the worst sort of criminals

Jesus – Mt. 16:21-28

As Christ’s death was the foundation of the church, our deaths are necessary to build His church.

Jozef Ton: Christ’s cross was for propitiation. Ours is for propagation

Jesus – Mt. 16:21-28

There are great rewards in terms of faithfulness to Him.

Rewards are to those who will receive His grace and serve for His sake.

It is not just to renounce the world for the reward’s sake.

Jesus – Mt. 16:21-28 Martyrdom happens to you -

not a suicide bomber. There are great rewards in

terms of faithfulness to Him. We need this training for the

tasks we will have in eternity. God’s grace is saving and

enabling grace.

The right attitude

Rewards are to those who will receive His grace and serve for His sake.

It is not just to renounce the world for the reward’s sake.

The right attitude

Let’s avoid an error: That we earn God’s favor through

our own efforts or living sacrificially to gain reward

Or that we gain favor with God through the pursuit of introspective self-scrutiny and self-discipline.

The focus must be on Him and His goals for us

The right focus The focus is on Christ and His

purposes. The true disciple often thinks

that he is only doing his duty (Lk. 17:10) and is thankful for God’s grace

Luke 17:7-10

[7] But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?[8] And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?

Luke 17:7-10

[9] Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.[10] So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do

A very convicting parable re attitudes

The cross and the glory

Like the cross is the only way for Jesus glory, so the cross is the path for the glory of His disciples.

They do not seek ambition or power, but to serve, especially those in misery & need.

The response to persecution

Some believe Some are afraid and say

nothing Some leave Christian

fellowship completely

We need to identify with Christian brothers in need

Mt. 25:[34] Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:[35] For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:


[36] Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.[37] Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? [38] When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?


[39] Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? [40] And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Luke - theology of persecution

Persecution is the rejection of God’s agents- so they are treated by the supposed people of God.

It is the false prophets who are well spoken of. Lk. 6:[26] Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.

The persecuted stand in continuity with the OT prophets.


Persecution is part of the plan of God - beginning with Simeon in Lk. 2:34[34] And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;


Lk. 2:[35] (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

The scriptures said so The servant-messiah must die

Persecution in the gospel of Luke

Daily renounce your old life There will be intense

persecution: Lk. 12:4-12; 21:12-19

.Persecution is the occasion of divine triumph: Lk. 10:19; 21:17-18;


Persecution is an integral consequence of following Jesus:

Hated because of the Son of man

You will be hated by all for my name’s sake

Persecution in the gospel of Luke Persecution is the occasion for

Christian perseverance: It is a time for testing.

Lk. 10:19. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you; 20: Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you, but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.


Persecution is the occasion of divine triumph:

Lk. 21:17-18 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake. 18: But there shall not an hair of your head perish.

John: Jesus demands that He is the only source of life; He must be central

Hatred for Jesus His own family rejects him He is threatened with arrest He is threatened with stoning His reputation was spoiled He is slandered He is arrested and killed

John 12

Jesus laid down His life for us; His disciples will do the same

in sharing the gospel The world did not come to

Jesus through signs and wonders, but when He was lifted up: Jn. 12:32[32] And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

John 12: Fruitfulness comes through dying Jn. 12:23-26 is the call to

martyr-dom: 23. And Jesus answered them, saying: The hour is come that the Son of man should be glorified. 24: Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.

Jesus warned His disciples before His death

Jn. 15:[18] If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.[19] If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

Jesus warning to His disciples

John 16:[2] They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.[3] And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.

Excellent example – Saul of Tarsus

The new promise: Acts 1:8

[8] But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

See the following implications

Acts – Persecution of the church

The Holy Spirit would empower them

They are not alone in the battle

It is God’s initiative, His action and His concern

Acts – Persecution of the church

They are ambassadors with His power and authority

Everything they achieve will be His achievement by His Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the comforter in persecution

The church explodes

Despite 2 martyrdoms, the death of Ananias & Saphira, and persecution from Jewish and Roman authorities, the church grew explosively, especially following the death of Stephen

Persecution in Acts Persecution offers more

opportunities to witness When the disciples fled, they did

not go underground - witnessing was public

Opposition inevitably followed the preaching of the gospel.

Church growth and spread of the gospel tends to cause persecution

Persecution came from a variety of sources and ways

Reasons for persecution Religious - threat to existing

systems Political - Christians primary loyalty

is to Christ, not the nation Social - sometimes breaks societal

and familial norms Economic - interferes with

particular businesses Emotional - jealousy by religious

leaders

Theology of Persecution in Acts

Persecution is part of the plan of God:

.When they killed Stephen, they thought that they served God

.Paul speaks before kings expecting persecution

Stephan, the first martyr

Stoning of Stephen


Persecution is the rejection of God’s agents - especially by religious leaders

See Stephen’s preaching and the result - what happened to the prophets too...

Persecuted stand in line with God’s prophets


Persecution is an integral consequence of following Jesus - proclaiming the risen Lord

Persecution is the occasion of divine triumph


God’s victory is His ability to deepen the disciples in the midst of affliction with rejoicing

and for them to remain obedient even when the situation does not change.

Why were the disciples ready to suffer and die?

They knew the sovereignty of God:

Their work was just to witness boldly in the power of the Holy Spirit

They prayed for boldness to preach and signs and wonders to lift up the name of Jesus

Why were the disciples ready to suffer and die?

They viewed suffering for Christ as a privilege and honor - 5:41; 16:25ff

They had a clear perception of the glory of martyrdom.

Stephen was the aggressor, witness-ing, forgiving, testifying and entrust-ing his spirit to God

The honor of being persecuted for Christ

Peter and John before the Sanhedrin Acts 5:[40] And to him they agreed: and

when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.[41] And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

Stephen sees Jesus Christ before his martyrdom

If Jesus was truly standing there, the Sanhedrin was wrong. They would not accept that, and killed him

The vision encouraged Stephen His prayer showed forgiveness that only

God can give His witness was empowered by the Holy

Spirit

Peter persecuted and jailed

James the brother of John was killed by Herod Atipas.

He jailed Peter, and planned to execute him as well. The church prayed earnestly, and God sent an angel who released him.

Peter freed from prison by an angel

Paul and suffering The message about Paul to

Ananias: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake: Acts 9:16

Paul’s conversion & blindness

Paul and Silas praise God in prison

Acts 16:[22] And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.[23] And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:

Paul and Silas praise God in prison

Acts 16:[24]Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.[25] And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them

Paul and Silas freed

Some of Paul’s suffering in 2 Corinthians 11:22-31

[23] Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.[24] Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one.[25] Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;


[26] In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;[27] In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.


[28] Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.[29] Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?[30] If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.[31] The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.

Paul arrested

Paul shipwrecked

Paul’s execution

1 Thessalonians: standing fast in persecution

1:[5] For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.[6] And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:[7] So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

2 Thessalonians – patience in suffering

1:[4] So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:[5] Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer

2 Thessalonians Our suffering may persist

throughout life, but will eventually stop, and God will repay in eternity

It is not if or why we suffer, but HOW we suffer.

2 Thessalonians Will we allow suffering to prepare

us for eternity, or will we insist on the rewards of eternity now, and get nothing then?

We must have prayer - so that it is His work and we are simply manifestations of His life in the world 3:[1] Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

1 Corinthians

Mission of any messenger of Christ

.Incarnation - rather than self-serving

.The cross - rather than self-preservation

.Weakness and dependency on God rather than stability and strength

I Corinthians 1:23 ff

[23] But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;[24] But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.[25] Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

I Corinthians 1:23 ff

[26] For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:[27] But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;

I Corinthians 1:23 ff [28] And base things of the world, and

things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:[29] That no flesh should glory in his presence.[30] But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:[31] That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

Paul answers those teachers preaching in power and strength

Paul ministers in weakness and foolishness deliberately - in the Spirit’s power

To move beyond the cross is really to abandon Christ. The message of the cross will be rejected except by the work of the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

[1] And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.[2] For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.[3] And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

[4] And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:[5] That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

Paul answers those teachers preaching in power and strength

Preaching will fail without the demonstration of the Spirit’s working in the messenger’s life and reliance on the Spirit to move in the hearts of the hearers.

The danger is trusting yourself as a communicator.

The difference is seen in both the message and the messengers.

How the world views Christians

I Cor. 4:[9] For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.[10] We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.

How the world views Christians

I Cor. 4:[11] Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no cer-tain dwellingplace;[12] And labour, work-ing with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:[13] Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day.

God rewards with quality

I Corinthians 3:[10] According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.[11] For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.


I Corinthians 3:[12] Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;[13] Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.


I Corinthians 3:[14] If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.[15] If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Those who do not live for Christ lose their inheritance

I Corinthians 6:[9] Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,[10] Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God

2 Corinthians - The cross of the Christian

We are linked with Christ in suffering 1:5-11 He never leaves us in our sufferings

The gospel without self-sacrifice, without a cross, without suffering is another gospel with another Jesus 11:1-4 Paul shows his sacrifice for the gospel


We are linked with Christ in suffering 1:3-10 He never leaves us in our sufferings[3] Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;[4] Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.;


[5] For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.[6] And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.


[7] And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.[8] For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:


[9] But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:[10] Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;


Paul’s sufferings are seen differently by the world and the people of God 2:14-17 [14] Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.[15] For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:


[16] To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?[17] For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.


The church can never be “seeker-sensitive” if it is faithful to his calling.

The Holy Spirit opens the eyes of the unbeliever to the truth of the gospel when His people demonstrate Christlike character.


Paul’s sufferings are necessary to manifest Christ: 4:5-15

It is the gospel that is glorious, and not the messenger, who is a clay pot (See Isaiah 53:2)

The word “dying” refers to the process of dying, not the state of death

Paul’s ministry of suffering

4:[6] For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.[7] But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

Paul’s ministry of suffering

4:[8] We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;[9] Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;[10] Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

The cross of the Christian

Paul’s suffering brings an eternal perspective: 4:16-5:10

Paul’s suffering gives creditability to his ministry: 6:1-13 - He lives what he preaches

Paul’s sufferings prove that He is God’s messenger 11:23-12:10

God’s grace in weakness is sufficient.

Paul’s eternal perspective 4:[16] For which cause we faint not; but

though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.[17] For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;[18] While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Paul’s eternal perspective 4:[16] For which cause we faint not;

but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.[17] For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

Paul’s eternal perspective 4: [18] While we look not at the

things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Paul’s perspective

5:[1] For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.[2] For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:[3] If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.

Paul’s perspective

5:[7] (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)[8] We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.[9] Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him

The proof of Paul’s ministry – 2 Corinthians 6

[4] But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,[5] In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;[6] By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,

The proof of Paul’s ministry – 2 Corinthians 6

[7] By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,[8] By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;[9] As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;[10] As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

His strength through our weakness: 2 Cor. 12:7-10

[7] And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.[8] For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

His strength through our weakness: 2 Cor. 12:7-10

[9] And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.[10] Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

Romans 5 Persecution prepares us for the

responsibilities we will inherit so that we will not be put to shame

Romans 5:[3] And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;[4] And patience, experience; and experience, hope:[5] And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us

Romans 5 & 8 Christ was appointed to suffer to be

glorified: Lk. 24:26 [26] Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

I Pet. 1:11 [11] Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.

Romans 8 .8:16-39 Life in the Spirit - v. 17 – 18

And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us

Romans 8

Our inheritance is contingent on our suffering with Him.

We don’t share in His glory if we don’t share in His sufferings.

His heirs will share with that suffering, and demonstrates our worthiness to partner with Him in eternity.

Romans 8 Our rewards are being put in

positions of authority in heaven, and this we do not earn. They are given by His grace.

He uses our trials to shape us into His image.

We must align our method of ministry with His of the cross.

Romans 8 We groan for release from

suffering along with all creation. The Holy Spirit helps us pray. But God uses this for our good.

God’s plan is never hindered by persecution. He uses it to make us like Himself; the result is certain

Romans 8:31-39 Nothing separates us incl. persecution

[31] What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?[32] He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?[33] Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.


[34] Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.[35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?[36] As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.


[37] Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.[38] For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come [39] Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord

How do we react to persecution? Rom. 12:14-21

[14] Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.[15] Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.[16] Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.


[17] Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.[18] If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.[19] Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.


[20] Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.[21] Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good

Galatians 6:12 As many as desire to make a

fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised: only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.

6:14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified to me, and I unto the world.

Ephesians He is a prisoner of Christ, not

Rome. He knows the mystery of the

unity of Jew and gentile and is in prison for preaching that. His suffering is their glory.

He prayed that nothing would uproot their love in Christ.

Ephesians 1:15-23

Paul wanted us to know our position in victory over Satan and his evil spirits

He also wanted us to know our incredible inheritance in Christ.

Ephesians 1:17-18

[17] That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:[18] The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints.

Ephesians 1:19-21

[19] And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,[20] Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,[21] Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Gentiles are fellow heirs

Eph. 3:[5] Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;[6] That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

The right spirit for Christians

Ephesians 4:[1] I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,[2] With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;[3] Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Ephesians 6:10-20

Be strong in the Lord, despite what meets you. The real battle is against satan.

God has given enough resources to stand - take them. STAND.

Ephesians 6:10-20

Truth, doing right, live out peace, depend on God for everything, and take salvation and the Word; dependence in prayer are the weapons of our warfare.

Paul is an ambassador in chains and he must deliver the message of the KING.

Who is the real enemy in persecution?

Ephesians 6:10. And finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11. Put on the whole armor of God, that you might be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Who is the real enemy in persecution?

Ephesians 6:12. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Philippians 1 You have received the gift (grace)

of being able to suffer for Christ. Grace transforms us as sufferers to

be sacrificial givers of the gospel to others. 1:29 [29] For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

They received this as participants in spreading the gospel

Philippians 1:12-25

His imprisonment did 3 things The non-Christians knew why he

was imprisoned The Christians took heart as they

saw his response to imprisonment His priorities: he accepts whatever

the Lord finds best

Suffering is a gift given to us

Phil. 1:[27] Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel:

Suffering is a gift given to us

Phil. 1:[28] And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.[29] For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.

Philippians 1

Joy is not dependent on one’s circumstances; it is dependent on one’s priorities!

Exalted via suffering: Philippians 2:5-11

[5] Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:[6] Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:[7] But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:[8] And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Exalted via suffering: Philippians 2:5-11

[9] Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:[10] That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;[11] And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

It is God’s work

Philippians 2:[12] Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.[13] For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Philippians 3:10 We must know Christ - but

how? By the power of his

resurrection And the sharing of His

sufferings Being made like Him in His

death [10] That I may know him, and

the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

Philippians 3 That I may attain the

resurrection from the dead. This is a special word, and may refer to a special type of reward

This is in contrast to those who are enemies of the cross - setting their mind on earthly things.

[18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

Philippians 3 [19] Whose end is destruction, whose

God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)[20] For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:[21] Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Colossians: 1:21-29 Paul’s work is Christ’s work.

Christ works through those who will make His goals their goals.

It demands labor and agony. [23] If ye continue in the faith grounded

and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;


[24] Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

The gospel cannot be preached and the people of God cannot be gathered in to congregations within the nations without individuals here and there completing what is lacking in Christ’s affliction in order to accomplish this task.


Such afflictions confront all who deliberately involve themselves in active service for Christ, especially when they bear public witness to the gospel.

Each generation must be willing to endure sufferings...

The power that raised Christ from the dead is assured to those who fulfill Christ’s sufferings.

2 Timothy God will give power greater than

the suffering to be endured Love is offered to those who do not

deserve it - mostly with self-sacrifice.

We must seek the best for those who seek to harm us (Lk. 6:27-36; Mt. 5:43-48, Rom. 12:14-21)

The greatest example of Christ .Self-control – not a spirit of fear

2 Timothy 1 Don’t be ashamed of my suffering,

but join in it. It is no shame 1:12 [12] For the which cause I also

suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

2 Timothy 1 The persecuted church is not a

church of victims! IF faithful to scripture, they go

forth in the power of God, believing that suffering is not the worst thing that can happen to them

2 Timothy 2-3

Be faithful; the reward comes at the end

If we die with Him, we will live with Him.

12-13 Be faithful, but if you fail, come back; He will not fail you

2 Timothy 2:11-13

[11] It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:[12] If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:[13] If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself

2 Timothy 3:10-13

[10] But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,[11] Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.

2 Timothy 3:10-13

[12] Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. [13] But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived

2 Timothy 2-3 Ch. 3 10-13 All who live Godly

will be persecuted, but (13) false teachers will get worse and worse and avoid persecution.

False teachers refashion their message and life to avoid paying the cost of following Christ.

2 Timothy 4

Paul was the drink-offering given in thankfulness for the forgiveness of sins.

It was the last part of the worship after the burned offering and meal offering.

2 Timothy 4 Paul points out that this was

done by the Lord, His work and He deserved the praise.

Paul gets the crown of righteous-ness, not by his work but by his total dependence on the work of Christ

2 Timothy 4:5-8

[5] But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.[6] For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.[7] I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

2 Timothy 4:5-8 The crown of righteousness

[8] Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

God’s plan for mankind is restored through Jesus Christ

Heb. 2:Heb. 2:[4] God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?[5] For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.[6] But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him?


Heb. 2:Heb. 2:[7] Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:[8] Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.


Heb. 2:Heb. 2:[9] But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.[10] For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

Hebrews We are worthy for His kingdom only

through Christ. Persecution, suffering and

martyrdom show that we are in Christ’s school (He also learned obedience) to gain His image of holiness and righteousness.

It is a testing ground to mature faith.

We need to identify with Christ’s sufferings

Jesus learned obedience through suffering

Hebrews 5:7. When the days of his flesh, when it offered up prayers and supplication with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; 8. Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;

Hebrews 11: The heroes of the faith

Many won victories looking for that heavenly reward – for example Abraham Sarah Moses

Hebrews 11:33-40

[33] Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,[34] Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

Hebrews 11:33-40

[35] Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:[36] And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:

Hebrews 11:33-40

[37] They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;[38] (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

Hebrews 11:33-40

[39] And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:[40] God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.

Look to Jesus, our example

Hebrews 12:[1] Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Look to Jesus, our example Hebrews 12:[2] Looking unto Jesus

the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.[3] For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.[4] Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

Heb 12:5-11

Even our own fathers disciplined us because of our sins, to bring us on the right way.

We should expect the Father of Spirits to discipline us too for our own good

We need not get discouraged, but to press on

We must remember others who are under persecution

Heb. 13:3 Remember them that are in bonds, is bound with them, and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body

All believers are in the body of Christ. When one piece of the body suffers, the entire body suffers

We must identify with Christ’s reproach

Heb. 13:3[12] Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.[13] Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.

We are identified with the reproach of Christ

James God uses trials to produce

steadfastness and spiritual maturity

We should therefore consider it all joy

The righteous man should pray for wisdom to see things in God’s perspective

God is good to all who call on Him

James 1:2-4

[2] My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;[3] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.[4] But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing

James God gives with an open hand God does not demean the

person who asks Trust the Lord - He is reliable -

whether rich or poor We don’t fall because of

outside trials but because of inward temptations. And we will always have temptations

James 1:12-15

[14] But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.[15] Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death

James 1:12-15

[12] Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.[13] Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

1 Peter Christians were rejected

because of their lifestyle - pure and austere without worshiping the gods

Grace is seen as suffering for one’s faithfulness to God.

From the world’s perspective, suffering and enduring is a tragedy. But God views it as grace - enduring suffering.

The tests purify us

I Peter 1:[6] Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:[7] That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.

We are called to follow in Christ’s steps

I Peter 2:[19] For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.[20] For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God

We are called to follow in Christ’s steps

I Peter 2:[21] For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:[22] Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:[23] Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously.

I Peter 4:3-5 [3] For the time past of our life may

suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:[4] Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:[5] Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.

1 Peter

Because it is grace, it is God’s work and nothing for us to boast of... We get this the moment we need it.

However, we will usually respond like we live. So let us learn obedience and trust and living sacrifice now.

1 Peter

Live peaceably as you can. When trials come trust the

Lord. Do not fear or retaliate.

I Peter 3 – Respond appropriately

. I Peter 3:[8] Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:[9] Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

I Peter 3 – Respond appropriately

. I Peter 3:[10] For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:[11] Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.[12] For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

1 Peter Don’t be surprised at a fiery trial.

Your suffering and faith will be

noticed on earth; rewards may be delayed till heaven.

Suffering for good is an evidence that God’s glorious Spirit rests on him.

Don’t be proud, but rest in God’s grace.

I Peter 4:12-19

[12] Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:[13] But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

I Peter 4:12-19

[14] If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.[15] But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.

I Peter 4:12-19

[16] Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.[17] For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

I Peter 4:12-19

[18] And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?[19] Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator

I Peter 5

8. Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9. Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

1 Peter

Remember…. The world takes offense at Christ’s message, but sometimes just at the presence of His followers.

We do not have to fight satan, but to resist him.

1 Peter: God promises to:

Restore where we have broken down

Confirm to give backbone needed to withstand temptations to deny him

Strengthen to resist satan even to death

Establish, giving a firm foundation

1 Peter It is through suffering that God

develops the personal character of His people.

Suffering never thwarts God’s purposes.

No suffering, no glory. This is how He gives grace in a

rebellious and fallen world.

Revelation As in Job, the answer is God’s

revelation of Himself – WHO rather than WHY 1:5[5] And from Jesus Christ, who is the

faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

Revelation – Problems the churches faced then…

Ephesus - strict unloving orthodoxy

Smyrna - fear of suffering Pergamos - false doctrine

creeping in Thyatira - moral and ethical

purity

Revelation – Problems the churches faced then…

Sardis - spiritual deadness Philadelphia - look beyond

yourselves Laodicea – worldliness

There is a cosmic struggle

The Lamb wins, but is killed in the battle

His messengers overcome, but through suffering and death

Testimony (marturia) always involves suffering and death. Jesus was the faithful witness

The Lamb is slain, and so are many of His witnesses

Revelation 5:[6] And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.

The Lamb is slain, and so are many of His witnesses

Revelation Revelation 6:[9] And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

Two witnesses: Rev. 11:[7] And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.


The only method God uses to bring the nations to Himself is through the testimony of Jesus Christ propagated by faithful witnesses, sealed with their blood, vindicated by their resurrection.


Force is counter-productive, leading to hatred and revolt.

It is the cross that is the answer.

They conquered satan by the word of testimony and the blood of Christ!

Revelation 12 [10] And I heard a loud voice saying in

heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.[11] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death

Summary

God is a suffering God – He knows our weaknesses and failings

Jesus learned obedience by the things which He suffered

He understands!

We can come to God Heb. 4:15 For we have not an

high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities: but was in all points tempted like as we are; yet without sin. 16. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

God has permitted suffering in this world for HIS purposes Persecution is open hostility

from someone because we are a Christian

All suffering in Christian service is with Christ and for Christ –

It could be sickness encountered in serving Him as well as direct persecution

Suffering and persecution

Satan desires to defeat us through suffering

God plans to use suffering in both purification and discipline

Suffering and persecution

Jesus chose suffering - it did not simply come on Him

It would be foolish to accept a sacrificial lifestyle if there was no life after death.

Suffering is a gift from Christ, who chose Himself to suffer

Purpose in suffering

Suffering weans us from self-dependence

Suffering magnifies Christ and His grace.

Jesus learned obedience from His suffering - but He never sinned - so it is not from sin

God wants us to be passionate for Him: Rev. 3:16; Mt. 22:37

Boast only in the cross of Christ: Gal. 6:14 - where every good thing was obtained for sinners

To have an impact, know that ONE THING - Phil. 3:7-9

[7] But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.[8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ[9] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith

God wants us to be passionate for Him: Rev. 3:16; Mt. 22:37

We only boast in the cross when we are on the cross - Gal. 2:19-20 - the old self died and the new self lives by faith of God in Christ Jesus

Galatians 2:19-20

[19] For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.[20] I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me

Christ’s life is treasured most when it is above health, money, and even life itself

We boast in the cross when we bear the cross:

Lk. 14:[27] And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.


Christ is all in life or death; Phil. 1:20-21 He will be honored! [20] According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.[21] For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

Christ’s life is treasured most when it is above health, money, and even life itself Death makes visible where our

treasure is: Mt. 10:37 [37] He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.


When we trust Jesus, we trust Him to give us what we most need - Himself!

Paul wanted to magnify Christ in life - and that meant to joy in the progress of their faith

Dying daily is living for Christ daily We are perfected through trials and

pain

The Goal of Life is to make others glad in God We must forgive. A free

conscience allows us to love God - the goal of forgiveness

We must joy in the fact that God has forgiven us

The goal of giving is also to give others eternal joy = which requires God’s grace

What can suffering do in our own lives?

It purifies our motives It demonstrates our priorities It draws us close to Christ

Blessings God gives with this grace…

Glory in heaven If we suffer with Him, we will

experience glory too with Him No suffering – no glory…. 2 Cor.

4:17-18; Romans 8:17-18 Comfort for both ourselves and

others


Persons will receive Christ Often God uses the forgiveness of

the one being persecuted to draw the persecutor to Himself – Stephen and Paul, Paul and the Philippian jailor, etc

We demonstrate the grace of God, which is sufficient in all situations see Paul – 2 Cor. 12:9


We learn that we cannot build life upon ourselves

If we suffer with Him, we will reign with Him…


We clearly demonstrate the worth of Jesus Christ – above family, goods, position, and life itself

We can show joy in all circumstances of life

Part II Persecution in Church History

From the Time of the Apostles to Present Day

Persecution helped the spread of Christianity

Spread the word by spreading the believers

Purify the church Removed apostates and mere

professors Strengthen witness through the

testimony at death Tertullian: the blood of the martyrs is

the seed of the church

Early martyrs include:

Virtually all the apostles except for John, who was placed on an island

Aristarchus Luke Barnabas Polycarp Perpetua

John sent to Patmos

Most if not all the apostles died a martyr’s death

Peter – crucified upside down at Rome by Nero

Paul – beheaded at Rome by Nero Thomas – speared in India In one catacomb in Rome, there

are the bodies of 174,000 martyrs Others flayed, dragged by horses,

etc.

Peter crucified upside down

Depiction of Thomas

Phillip stoned at Hieropolis

James beheaded

James the Just – stoned & clubbed to death

Martyrs deaths of the early church

James beheaded by Herod Agrippa, who also killed a number of other early Christians

Phillip – scourged, imprisoned and crucified in Phrygia

Matthew – killed by the sword James the just – thrown from the

temple, stoned and clubbed to death

Martyrs deaths of the early church

Mattias – stoned & beheaded at Jerusalem

Mark dragged to pieces by a mob in front of their idol Serapis

Andrew crucified with two pieces of the cross on the ground

Peter crucified upside down

Andrew crucified

Martyrs deaths – early church

Jude (Thaddeus) crucified at Edessa

Bartholomew – beaten and crucified in India

Thomas – thrust through by priests in India

Luke – hung from olive tree Jude – shot with arrows

Barnabas burned at Salamis

Mark dragged to be burned

Reasons for persecution – political

Rome wanted a uniform world under Roman government, and the worship of the Emperor was a stabilizing factor

The Christians were tied by spiritual factors and placed Christ before Caesar and undermined the classic culture Rome wanted to propagate. They held secret meetings at night

Reasons for persecution – religious

Christians prayed but not to idols – this must be atheism

Christians had a “kiss of peace- this must be immorality

Christians “ate the body of Christ” = cannibalism

You could have another religion, but secondary to that of the state

Reasons for persecution – social

Christians said all people are equal; the pagans believed in a rich aristocracy

The Christians led pure lives, a rebuke to the lives of many pagans

The Christians did not participate in many of the rites and entertainment of the masses

Reasons for persecution

Christianity was seen no longer as a Jewish sect – thus illegal

The Christians threatened the economy of many idol-makers, etc.

Initial persecution – Nero who sought a scapegoat for the burning of Rome; killed Peter & Paul

95 – Domitian – exiled John

Rome persecuted the church

Most of the emperors were considered a god which must be worshipped

They opposed the church and its power

There were 10 major persecutions between Nero in 64 A.D. and Diocletian in 303 A.D.

Rome persecuted the believers

While Christianity was viewed as a Jewish sect, there was not a great amount of persecution, as Judaism was tolerated. But when the church spread, and was rejected by the Jews, persecution began as the population of Christians rose to 5-15% of the population, and held themselves apart

Persecution in post-apostolic times

After the death of the apostles, the Christian faith continued to spread

Most of the early persecution was from the Roman empire, and tended to be periodic

There was not much persecution from other religions or from Christians themselves

Persecution 100-250

Emperor Tragan – 112 – don’t seek out Christians, but if one is so, ask three times. If affirmative – kill him

Later in Smyrna – Polycarp killed Marcus Aurelius persecuted

Christians – he was a Stoic who believed Christians caused the problems in his time – Killed Justyn Martyr

The martyrs of Lyons 177AD

There was great persecution at this time because Rome could not endure Christians say “Christ is Lord.”

Many Christians were tried and cast into prison and tortured horribly

Some recanted but were returned to prison

Lyons martyrs

Several outstanding martyrs were present Blandina, a slave woman, endured

incredible tortures until her torturers were worn out. She was forced to watch the torture of others and finally gored by bulls after having been burned in an iron seat. She encouraged many

Lyons Martyrs

Bishop Plothinus – 90 years old but steadfast

Sanctus – horribly tortured Vellitus, a nobleman who defended the

Christians They defeated the satanic opposition Even those who recanted returned to

make confession and were martyred

A survivor of Lyons explains

The torture was instigated by satan The horrible cruel torture The kind words of the judge to recant

The steadfastness of the martyrs dealt a tremendous blow to satan

God gave them the ability to withstand inhumane torture

Blandina – of the martyrs of Lyons

Perpetua Her father, a nobleman, pled with her

to recant; she refused. He took a beating to try to get her free She had a new-born, and also her

slave girl had just delivered She at last pushed the family away Perpetua gored by a bull, then

beheaded

Perpetua had visions before death

She saw a golden ladder with the devil blocking the entrance, and she must smash the devil’s head

She saw her brother in hell; she prayed and he went to heaven

She saw a vision of fighting an Egyptian

Unscriptural teachings begin

Emphasis that the martyr will win eternal life on his own efforts

That the martyr has special privileges to pray for others

Window depicting Perpetua and her slave Felicia martyrdom

Vitalius, Roman nobleman, buried alive

Ignatius, a follower of John, devoured by lions

Here are a few martyrs in the original apostolic times Polycarp, bishop of Smyrna - very

effective. Burned at age 86 after he refused to deny Christ - a number came to Christ later from his witness

Justin Martyr - beheaded because of his teaching Christians in their homes

Polycarp was known and hated by unbelievers

He glorified Jesus Christ He spoke against idolatry He was effective not only in

Smyrna, but also traveled to Rome He was powerful in prayer His strong testimony led to his

being burned to death A. D. 156

Phocus, bishop of Sineppe, thrown in lime kiln

Justyn Martyr – apologist beheaded for his faith

Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna

Persecution 250-313

Decius demanded every citizen to make a yearly sacrifice to the genius of the emperor, and received a certificate. Origen was tortured – later died

Diocletian, a powerful military ruler, no longer shared power with the senate, and tolerated no other religion. Severe persecution broke out 303-305

Persecution – Diocletian

Churches were burned, leaders captured and killed if they refused to make a sacrifice. Jails were too full to have regular criminals in them

311 – Galerius – edict of toleration 313 – Constantine – freedom of all

religions Showed importance of separation of

church and state

Results of persecution

Christianity was first strong in the east 2e – reached the Greek-speaking masses

– esp. Alexandria 3e – moved into Latin areas, with

Carthage as a strong church There was the problem of what to do

with Christians who denied the faith or gave over scriptures, and came back when the persecution was over

Extreme honor given to martyrs

The name of the martyr was inscribed in the catalogue of saints, and they ordered a public recognition.

2. His/her intercession was invoked at public prayers

3. Churches were dedicated to God in his/her memory.

4. The eucharist and divine office were celebrated in his/her honor

Extreme honor given to martyrs

5. His/her festival was observed 6. They made representations of

him/her surrounded by divine light 7. His/her relics were enclosed in

precious vessels and publicly honored.

Further development of saints

Clement of Alexandria and then Origen began to look at asceticism as equal to martyrdom.

Then they attributed some of the benefits to the monks, who often withdrew totally from society instead of serving it. They no longer preached the gospel to a hostile people

Soon churches wed the state and had false teachings

Baptismal regeneration Infant baptism – first by immersion Bishops began to claim

precedence, and also a split between Rome and Constantinople. The clergy dominated, and then joined the state

In 416 infant baptism by law

Now churches filled with unbelievers and compulsion not freedom

The true churches rejected these laws. The false church called themselves Christian and had all sorts of names for the loyal churches – Montanist, Tertullianist, Anabaptist, etc.

Further councils promoted

Worship of Mary Worship use of images No salvation outside the Catholic

church Some of the persecuted groups

strayed from true doctrine as it was difficult to have scriptures, and those who did were tortured and the scriptures destroyed – Donatists, Paulicians,

Indulgences

Required a “bank account” of excess of good works in heaven obtained by the saints, but accessible to the church, who could sell them

Purgatory – where people would stay until cleansed of their sins

Further doctrinal deviations in the 10-13th centuries

Transubstantiation accepted as an official doctrine

The Inquisition The denial of the Bible to laymen

Terrible persecution of Albigenses and Waldenses

These individuals were primarily Bible believing individuals, most of whom also practiced non-resistance. They were hunted down and persecuted by the Roman Catholics, and many burned.

During the Reformation

Catholics persecuted Protestants Anabaptists

Protestants persecuted anabaptists

John Wycliffe 1320-1384

Was against the corruption within the church and its riches

He translated the Bible into English – finished by Nicholas of Herford

He opposed the Pope, transubstan-tiation, and felt that the Bible should take priority over the traditions of the church

John Wycliffe

He had influence on the Lollards and Mennonites (through John Huss)

He died of a stroke. The Roman Catholic church declared that he was a heretic, banned his books, and exhumed his body, burned the bones and cast them in the River Swift

John Wycliffe

John Wycliffe preaching to Lollards

Burning the bones of John Wycliffe

John Huss 1373-1415

Richard II married Anne from Bohemia, and the ideas of Wycliffe went to Bohemia, where they were accepted by Huss. Huss was called to appear before the pope and guaranteed safe conduct But there he was condemned to death and burned. His group continued as the United Brothers of Moravia

John Huss

Savonorola 1452-1498

This priest complained to the pope and wanted reform within the church. The church instead condemned and hanged him. During this period, councils no succeeded in reformation, and once they had 3 popes at the same time. Finally the popes regained power and they did NOT have a constitutional sort of government

Savonorola

Some of Savonorola’s problems appeared when he gained secular power in Florence, and acted as governor. Some of his policies were very strong, and he developed powerful political enemies, and lost public support. He was opposed by the Roman Catholic church and burned as a heretic

Savanorola

The inquisition The Catholics retaliated from the

Protestant Reformation with the ban of books and the inquisition.

This was especially vicious in Spain, with an estimated 10,000 deaths from torture

Priests asking a “heretic” to repent

Inquisition – the rack

The Portuguese and Spanish inquisition

Galileo & the inquisition

The Inquisition

William Tyndale (1494-1536)

Brilliant scholar in 8 languages He accepted reformed theology Hid in Europe and translated much

of the Bible from the original Hebrew and Greek in excellent translation

He was betrayed, imprisoned, and burned as a heretic

William Tyndale

Execution of Tyndale

Persecution in England, especially with Mary

Henry VIII wanted to divorce his wife Catherine, a devout Catholic, and marry Anne Boleyn. The pope declined to permit it, and at the suggestion of Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII declared himself the head of the church of England. No change in Catholic doctrine was present, and Henry VIII died a Catholic.

Persecution in England

Henry was succeeded by Edward VI, a Protestant, and bishops Cranmer, Latimer and Ridley began to make changes in the church of England

At the death of Edward, however, Mary, a devout Catholic, came to power determined to return England to the Catholic church

Persecution in England, especially with Mary

There was a struggle of power between the Anglicans and the Catholics, and many were martyred when Catherine’s daughter, “Bloody Mary”, came to power. She killed 275 persons during her 5 year reign, declaring them “heretics” by the Catholic church. Jane Grey, queen for only 9 days, was executed (as a martyr). Then Elizabeth became queen and reestablished the church of England.

Execution of Jane Grey

Ridley and Latimer executed

During Bloody Mary’s reign, she condemned Ridley and Latimer as heretics and burned them at the stake.

What is ironic is that they themselves had persecuted anabaptists

Ridley and Latimer burned at the stake

Five different established churches persecuted anabaptists

Rome Greek orthodox Lutheran Presbyterian Anglican All were state churches with state

power behind them

50 million anabaptists and others murdered in 12 centuries

At one place in Europe, the road had stakes every few feet with the head of a martyred “heretic” impaled on a stake

They were called by many names, usually from a strong leader, but also the name “ana-baptist” Rebaptizer

A new persecuted church turned persecutor

The Congregational church arose in the 16th century, repudiating the rule of the clergy and having congregational rule

However, they still agreed with infant baptism

Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, and Presbyterians persecuted them

Peace of Westphalia 1648

Catholics, Lutherans and Presbyterians would not fight each other

However, severe persecution existed against the Waldensians & Anabaptists

Zwingli – a “great reformer” and a “great persecutor”

Zwingli in Geneva persecuted the anabaptists who fled there unmercifully.

He had apparently agreed with his personal friend Balthazar Hubmaier that infant baptism was wrong but changed his mind, and later put Hubmaier on the rack. He was later apprehended, burned to death and his wife drowned

Zwingli

Once he locked up 20 persons – men, women, pregnant women and young girls in a dark tower with bread and water until all had died together.

Ulrich Zwingli

John Bunyan

A Puritan or non-conformist preacher, he was arrested for preaching which was “unauthorized” and to failing to attend compulsory Anglican church services.

He wrote Pilgrim’s Progress while in jail

John Bunyan

John Bunyan – Bedford jail

Persecution during the 16-18th centuries

During this time, incredible persecution took place.

The Hugenots were basically wiped out of France

The anabaptists were hunted throughout Europe

Persecution of Hugenots in France

St. Barthomew Day Massacre of Hugenots

Dirk Willems

This anabaptist escaped from prison and headed over thin ice away from prison. A guard pursued him but fell through the ice and was in danger of death. Dirk returned and saved the man, who wanted to release him but the balliff would not permit it. He was condemned and executed.

Dirk Willems saves his captor

The Baptists were persecuted

Crimes such as Preaching the gospel Refusing to have infants baptized

Punishment Whipping Banishment Fines Property confiscated

Anabaptist beliefs

They believed in baptism following a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.

They expected a visible transformation of the individual’s life.

They expected obedience to the Lord’s commands.

They expected to imitate the Lord in all areas, including suffering.

Anabaptists & communion

Bread showed community, but also crushing the grain first

The cup likewise showed unity but first the crushing of the grapes

Anabaptists and 2 kingdoms – the world & God

The Kingdom of God is ultimately victorious but many members must suffer and die

They must fight for the truth, which the world only recognizes after self-sacrifice

They wrote hymns and letters filled with scripture

In America before the constitution

Puritans, Anglicans and Congregationalists persecuted or discriminated against the baptists

Taxation Loss of property Whipping Incarceration

Roger Williams

Main proponent of:Separatism, freedom of religionseparation of church and stateFounded the first Baptist Church

Roger Williams

Because of his strong views on separation, he was to be arrested, but walked 100 plus miles in the snow and was rescued by the Indians

He basically set up Rhode Island as the first colony with complete religious freedom in the USA

Roger Williams and Indians

Roger Williams and John Clarke in Rhode Island

Went to England to get a charter – Williams returned without success from Oliver Cromwell, but after 12 years, John Clarke received the charter

Rhode Island – first place with religious liberty ever 1663 – Clarke had set up the first baptist church in 1638

First Baptist church in USA – by Williams & Clarke

Obadiah Holmes whipped

Clarke, Holmes & visiting preacher Crandall visited a parishoner just inside Massachusetts Bay. They were bound and brought into a Congregational church with hands tied and then charged with failure to remove their hats during a religious service. They were fined (also mentioned about infant baptism)

Obadiah Holmes

Holmes, a former Congregationalist, refused to have his fine paid, and was whipped so badly that blood overflowed his boots – for weeks he could not lay on his back

Obadiah Holmes whipping

Persecution by the Presbyterians

A small colony of 5 Baptist families was taxed to build a Presbyterian church. They were unable to pay, and their properties were sold at 10% of the value, much bought by the Presbyterian minister who was to move there

Persecutions under the Anglicans – James Ireland 1748-1806

22 years old arrested for preaching without authorization from the bishop

Placed in Culpepper Jail – they abused him, tried to kill him with sulfur fumes, blow him up with gunpowder, poison him through a doctor, cursed and rode horses through those who gathered to hear him preach

Eventually a small church was built on the site of the infamous jail

James Ireland memorial

Persecutions endured – from court records

“ pelted with apples and stone" "ducked and nearly drowned by 20 men" "commanded to take a dram, or be whipped" " jailed for permitting a man to pray" "meeting broken up by a mob" "arrested as a vagabond and schismatic" "pulled down and hauled about by hair" "tried to suffocate him with smoke" "tried to blow him up with gun powder"

Persecutions endured – from court records

" "dragged off stage, kicked, and cuffed about" "shot with a shot-gun" " ruffians armed with bludgeons beat him" "severely beaten with a whip" "whipped severely by the Sheriff" "hands slashed while preaching“

Virginia – Anglican laws which gave a little freedom

Patrick Henry volunteered to defend three baptist preachers – with success

One baptist preacher/county who could preach once every two months in one location and never at night. No mission work. They were convinced a church could not survive without government support. Freedom finally came in 1786

Summary observations thus far

As we began, we saw that the unsaved (children of the flesh) persecute the saved (children of the Spirit). Although the example in Galatians was of Ishmael and Isaac, that example remains true today and has been true since the beginning of the unsaved in the line of Cain.

Summary observations

Thus we can expect in any age that there will be religious persecution of the saved by the unsaved

With the beginning of Christianity, that persecution was outside the church, primarily from the Roman government


However, when Christianity was no longer a persecuted religion, unbelievers flooded into the church. Many unbiblical heathen concepts entered the church, especially with the unsaved. And now the church became powerful, wealthy, and began persecuting true believers. We saw the beginning in the Old Testament, with kings and others persecuting the prophets


The monolithic corrupt Catholic church began persecuting many, although at all times God has had His chosen believers within the church. When the concept of the state church arose, the Protestant churches also used the same methods.

The one church which has never persecuted by conviction is the Baptists


The concept of the state-church created may problems All are in the church – saved and unsaved,

by virtue of their birth into a location Infant baptism is a way to ensure that all are

in the state church, and insisting on freedom of choice is a threat to the state church existence

The more monolithic the structure, the greater opportunity for abuse

Persecution in Expansion

With expansion of outreach especially since the 19th century, new sources of persecution came forth

There was competition between churches over various new lands

There was direct conflict with other religions – Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism, etc

Summary and conclusions

Persecution of believers started with Abel and has persisted to the present, and we can anticipate its continuation at least until Christ returns.

The righteous have been persecuted by the unrighteous, and especially the religious unrighteous, throughout the ages

Conclusions…

The Old Testament prophets and the New Testament apostles experienced persecution, and many experienced martyrdom.

Jesus, who is PERFECT RIGHTEOUS-NESS, suffered the worst persecution and abrogation of justice

Conclusions

The religious persecutors often believe that they are doing God’s work. The unreligious may simply enjoy showing their might.

When there is a union of the church and the state, there is almost inevitably persecution. Sometimes the persecuted turn persecutors when they gain power

Conclusions

We are not to fear persecution or persecutors, but rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer for His sake

We must be careful that it is indeed for Christ’s sake that we suffer, and not for our own misdeeds or foolishness

We must not deny Christ We must not place life or family above

Christ

Conclusions

We have a responsibility to stand with those who are persecuted for righteousness sake – example Corrie Ten Boom, who hid Jews from the Nazis

The Lord promises to sustain us during all our trials, and never leave us or forsake us

Conclusions

Trials can purify or motives and demonstrate our priorities and our faith in a very tangible way

We are servants to our tormentors, and need to pray for them. Many have been saved – like Saul of Tarsus after the death of Stephan

Conclusions

God can show his great power when we choose to forgive our tormentors, and especially when we overcome evil with good. Repaying evil with good demands God’s supernatural power and can transform our suffering into an offering to Him

Forgiveness transforms

When Zacharias the high priest was stoned at the order of King Joash, he asked for revenge – and got it. Joash was later killed by his own servants and buried to the relief of all.

But when Jesus and Stephan forgave their persecutors, God’s great power was demonstrated transforming sinners to saints.

God uses persecution for witnessing opportunities

Paul looked at his imprisonment in this way, testifying before Kings and also presumably the emperor himself

He was very clear that his imprisonment was for the furtherance of the gospel (See Phil 1)

God uses persecution to purify us and prepare us for heaven

We see that all things that are permitted in our lives as Christians to conform us to the image of His son – with the goal of spending eternity with Him

Furthermore, there are great rewards for faithfulness in times of persecution