“But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them.” Mark 13:9
April 20, 2026
We should not be surprised that there is a high cost for following Jesus Christ. It is to be as sheep in the midst of wolves. Persecution takes us to the very heart of what it means to be “in Christ.” His is a call to come and die (Mk. 8:35, “Whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.”). Persecution is the experience of pain and suffering for no other reason than because we are Christians. Identity with Christ invites the hostility of the world. It hates Christ and would kill Him again if it had the chance. Persecution will come from both religion and human government. The message of the cross is offensive to the natural heart of man. However, persecution is the opportunity to experience the empowering of the Holy Spirit. He gives boldness and the wisdom to say what is necessary. Do not be afraid to speak up for the message of the risen Christ. Do not be surprised. persecution can come from one’s own family (Matt.10:34-38). The light of the gospel makes the unbeliever uncomfortable because the nonChristian loves darkness rather than light. You may very well have already heard the words; “are you implying that I am not going to heaven when I die?”
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Reflections:
What are some of the ways living and speaking for Christ may affect you?
What is your response to charges that Christians are intolerant and judgmental?