When Christians react in kind to hostility, whether from government, society, or individuals, Satan triumphs – Matthew 5:12.
The reality of persecution in the Christian life raises numerous questions. For example, how should we react to our persecutors, especially when we are persecuted by governing authorities? Should we respond with indignation, civil disobedience, and public protests? Or should the disciples of Jesus follow his example and that of the early church?
Continue readingIf the Thessalonians emulate the apostolic example, they will receive the “crown of glory” at Christ’s return – 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20.
Opposition from the local synagogue had compelled Paul to leave Thessalonica prematurely. Though initially, some members of that group had welcomed his message, they turned against him once large numbers of Gentiles began to embrace the gospel. And even after he left the city, some of the synagogue leaders pursued him as he preached elsewhere in Macedonia.
Continue readingThe Thessalonians received the gospel in tribulation but remained faithful in anticipation of the arrival of Jesus – 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10.
Opposition to the new faith forced Paul to leave Thessalonica before his work was completed. When he attempted to return to the city, he was thwarted “by Satan.” Because of anxieties about the congregation, he sent Timothy to investigate. His first letter is his thankful response after receiving good news about the congregation’s faithfulness.
Continue readingThe godly disciple who faithfully bears witness to the gospel of Jesus will endure “tribulation” and persecution for his sake.
Our human tendency is to avoid trouble and conflict. Understandably, we prefer our daily lives to be characterized by peace, acceptance, and prosperity, a life devoid of difficulty, affliction, and certainly persecution. And the New Testament does promise believers peace now and everlasting life later. Yet it also exhorts us to expect and prepare for afflictions in this life.
Continue readingThe reality of persecution raises important questions. How should disciples react to hostility and opposition, especially when they are persecuted by the government? Should they resort to indignation, civil disobedience, and public protests, or ought disciples of Jesus emulate his example?
The human desire to live without conflict is understandable. Nevertheless, Jesus warns that all men who choose to follow him will have “tribulation.” And he summons his disciples to follow the same path he did. The “servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, so they will persecute you” – (John 15:20, 16:33).
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