Introduction :
Jesus warned His disciples in John 15:18:
“If the world hates you, know that it has hated Me before it hated you.”
Paul added in 2 Timothy 3:12:
Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
1. What is Persecution?
1.1 Definition:
Persecution is suffering for Christ’s sake. It is opposition, slander, mistreatment, not for doing wrong, but for belonging to Jesus.
Jesus defines it in Matthew 5:10-12.
1.2 Biblical Examples
Jesus told His disciples: “You will be hated by all for My Name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matt 10:22)
Stephen was stoned in Acts 7, praying for his enemies.
Paul endured imprisonment, beatings, and finally execution.
Jesus Himself in Revelation 2:10 tells the church in Smyrna: “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
2. Why does Persecution Arise?
2.1 Because the Gospel exposes sin (John 3:19).
2.2 Because Christian convictions clash with cultural idols.
2.3 Because Satan wages war on the saints. (Rev 12).
3. The Biblical Response to Persecution
3.1 Attitudes we must Cultivate3.1.1 Endurance. Jesus in Matt. 10:22: “The one who endures to the end will be saved.”
3.1.2 Joy: Jesus in Matt.5:12: “Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.”
3.1.3 Trust: Romans 12:19: “Never avenge yourselves… ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’”
3.1.4 Forgiveness. Jesus prayed: “Father, forgive them.” Stephen prayed: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”
3.2 Actions we must Take
3.2.1 Witness boldly. (Matt 10:18–20)
3.2.2 Cling to the Word
3.2.3 Spread the Gospel through suffering (Acts 11:19–21)
3.2.4 Encourage one another.
3.2.5 Refuse retaliation (Rom 12:14)
3.2.6 Be wise (Matt 10:23)
4. Promises and Rewards
4.1 The kingdom of heaven (Matt 5:10)
4.2 The crown of life (Rev 2:10)
4.3 The presence of Christ (Matt 28:20)
4.4 The future glory (Rom 8:18).
5. Application Today
For us, persecution may mean ridicule, job loss, or being marginalized. For others, it means prison or death.
6. Our call
a. Count the cost. Luke 9:23: “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”.
b. Don’t be silent. Latimer and Ridley lit a candle; will we?
c. Prepare spiritually. Like Chinese believers memorising Scripture.
7. Biblical Anchors
a. Total Depravity: explains the world’s hatred of truth.
b. Sovereignty of God: even persecution serves His plan (Rom 8:28).
c. Union with Christ: sharing His sufferings (Phil 3:10).
d. Perseverance of the Saints: nothing can snatch us from His hand (John 10:28).