Kept From the Hour of Testing

'Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.'

Revelation 3:10

In my previous post I alluded to this verse and stated that this was not a pre-tribulational promise of rapture, but a promise to those who were faithful. I would like to take a deeper look at this, to further explain what I meant.

This verse is similar to a verse found in John's gospel. The context is the period of time right after the Passover meal, just before Jesus went to Gethsemane, where He was betrayed by Judas.

Jesus has washed the disciples feet, and given them some final words of consolation and encouragement. He was about to face the cross, and ultimately leave this earth, returning to His Father. He assures the disciples that they will not be alone, but He will send them the Holy Spirit. They are also warned that persecution is to be expected. Jesus did not want them to caught by surprise when it arrived, and He does not want us to be either.

John 17 records Jesus' prayer for His disciples, and for all who would come to believe in Him as well. There is one part of this prayer that can shed some light on the verse quoted above.

"I do not ask you to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one."

John 17:15

The word "keep" in this passage as well as the passage pertaining to the philadelphian Church is the same word meaning to guard or to watch over, to preserve. We often think of this word as to prevent something from happening. For example in this verse, to prevent believers from experiencing Satan's attacks. But we know this cannot be true, as Christians throughout the ages have experienced Satan's attacks in various forms. The Bible tells us that we will (1Peter 5:8-9, James 4:7). Jesus is praying that the Father would watch over and preserve us through the attacks of Satan, and many can attest to the faithfulness of God when trials and testing come.

Likewise, dispensationalism teaches that the Church will be raptured before the great tribulation. They see a promise of escape in the promise to keep faithful believers from the hour of testing to come upon the whole earth.  But as I previously stated, the word "keep" means to watch over, to guard, to preserve. To be consistent with the previous passage, we must conclude that Jesus will watch over and preserve us through tribulation, yes, even the great tribulation as well. 

It is interesting to note that in His prayer He did not ask that the disciples be removed from the earth. Why? Because they had a mission to reach the lost, to disciple all of the nations. If they would have been quickly "raptured" out when Jesus ascended how would any of us have heard and believed the good news of salvation? So why should we be raptured out early? Are we better than they were? No, we, just like them, have the same call and mission to bring the gospel to the lost. We must finish what they began. They were promised persecution and we share that same promise, and just like the first disciples, we too have the promise of God's faithfulness to watch over, guard, and preserve us, as we faithfully carry out the task He has given us.

We might face suffering, and even death because of who we serve, but He is faithful to bring us safely home.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Matthew 28:19-20 NASB 

Perseverance of the Saints

7. It was also given to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them, and authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation was given to him.

8. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain.

9. If anyone has an ear, let him hear.

10. If anyone is destined for captivity, to captivity he goes; if anyone kills with the sword he must be killed. Here is the perseverance and faith of the saints. 

Revelation 13:7-10 NASB 

"And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.

Revelation 12:11 NASB 

The context of these passages (Rev 12:1-13:18) describe the 42 month period known as the "great tribulation." Chapter 12 tells of Satan being cast down to earth, and in a great rage he pursues the Jews to destroy them. We are also informed that he makes war with those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus (Rev13:17). In other words Christians.

Chapter 13 describes how Satan seeks to  accomplish this. It is through a figure referred to as the beast, also known as the Antichrist. This individual is given authority by Satan for this purpose. Contrary to popular teaching, followers of Jesus will be on the earth, and will face this persecution. This is abundantly shown in scripture. Many are "secure" in the belief that we won't be here to experience this, but instead of resting in a false comfort, we need to reconcile with reality and prepare ourselves for what is to come. 

When these dark days come upon the earth Christians will need endurance. In the above verses we read of perseverance in the midst of persecution. The temptation to cave in, to renounce our faith will be overwhelming. Yet to give up for the sake of some momentary safety will cost us in the end.

11. "And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever; they have no rest day and night, those who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name."

12. Here is the perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.

Revelation 14:11-12 NASB 

Again we see the necessity of perseverance or endurance, and faith. The faith mentioned here goes beyond mental assent to Biblical facts. This faith is better defined as loyalty. To take the mark is to give allegiance to the beast, and ultimately to the dragon or Satan who is the power behind the beast. To be faithful even unto death is the way to overcome Satan.

9. When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained;

10. and they cried out with a loud voice, saying, "How long O Lord, holy and true, will you refrain from judging and avenging our blood on those who dwell upon the earth?"

11. And there was given to each of them a white robe; and they were told that they should rest for a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brethren who were to be killed even as they had been, would be completed also.

Revelation 6:9-11 NASB 

Here we read of martyrs who were put to death because of their faithfulness to the word of God, and the testimony that they maintained, even under the most severe conditions. The word martyr means witness. To die for your faith in Christ is the ultimate testimony to the world. It is sealed in blood.

In the old covenant sacrificial system the blood of the sacrifice was poured out at the base of the altar (Leviticus 4:7). These martyrs placed their very lives upon the altar of sacrifice, and their souls were poured out in death. This is the picture we see described here.

In Revelation 7:9-17 John beheld a great multitude of people from every nationality standing before the throne and the Lamb. They also were wearing white robes and carrying palm branches. When asked who they were, and where the had come from, John had no answer. 

14. I said to him, "My lord, you know." And he said to me, "These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

15. "For this reason, they are before the throne of God; and they serve Him day and  night in His temple; and He who sits on the throne will spread His tabernacle over them. 

16. "They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun beat down on them, nor any heat.

17. "for the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and will guide them to springs of the water of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes."

Revelation 7:14-17 NASB

Earlier we saw the souls of the martyrs under the altar. Now we see the full number of martyrs standing before Jesus, apparently now in their glorified bodies. They no longer cry out for God to avenge them. Now they cry out in worship, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." (Rev 7:10). Their conflict is over and they are safely in the presence of Jesus, their robes have been washed in His blood, they maintained their testimony, and they did not cling to their lives when faced with death. 

To be sure, there will be those who are alive and remain at Christ's second coming (1 Thess 4:17), but primarily, to come out of the great tribulation will be through death. 

This is how we overcome Satan with his wrath against those who follow Jesus. It will be essential that we resolve now to be steadfast in the face of persecution. The scriptures are filled with warnings against deception, lawlessness, and persecution in the last days. These things will cause many to fall away from the faith. A great apostasy from the faith is foretold as a warning to us. We must be strong, we must steadfast, we must persevere. 

2. And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who had been victorious over the beast and his image and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, holding harps of God. 

3. And they sang the song of Moses, the bond servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God the Almighty; righteous and true are Your ways, King of the nations!

4. "Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For you alone are holy; for ALL THE NATIONS WILL COME AND WORSHIP BEFORE YOU, FOR YOUR RIGHTEOUS ACTS HAVE BEEN REVEALED. "

Revelation 15:2-4 NASB

Then I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgement was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of the testimony of Jesus and because of the word of God, and those who had not worshipped the beast or his image, and had not received the mark on their forehead and on their hand; and they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.

Revelation 20:4

To be victorious demands endurance. I do not mean that we pick ourselves up by the boot straps and exert all of our self effort, because we really are insufficient in and of ourselves. We read of a Church with little power, but who kept the word of Jesus and did not deny Him. They were given an open door, and kept from the hour of testing that is to come. This is not a pre-tribulational promise of rapure, but God's promise to those who are faithful. We read Jesus' words that He will be with us always, even to the end of the age (see Rev 3:7-12, Matt 28:20 John 17:15). We are called to overcome numerous times throughout scripture. Endurance is vital if we are to come out of this world victorious over everything that Satan throws at us, especially in Earth's final days. 

  

Endurance Until the End

3. We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows even greater;

4. therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure.

5. This is a plain indication of God's righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering.

6. For after all it is only just for God to repay with afflictions those who afflict you,

7. and to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in Flaming fire,

8. dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.

9. These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 

10. when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed—for our testimony to you was believed.

11. To this end we also pray for you always, that our God will count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power,

12. so that the name of our Lord Jesus will be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 1:3-12 NASB 

In Acts 17 we read that the apostle Paul went to Thessalonica where He planted a church. All this took place within the space of a couple of weeks as a mob formed as a result, creating such a disturbance that Paul was forced to leave.

Paul was concerned for these new Christians and sent Timothy to encourage them. On Timothy's return Paul found that these believers were not only remaining faithful, but we're thriving in the face of persecution.  We often speak of individuals as "baby Christians" and yes, a new convert is technically just that. But compare what you read of the Thesalonian Church with the fact that we so often consider others, or even ourselves "baby Christians" months, even years after a profession of faith. I have always been amazed reading through First Thessalonians as it describes these new disciples growing and prospering. They only had two weeks with Paul, then persecution came. And they became an example for others to follow (1 Thessalonians 1:6-10).

While Paul was with them he prepared them for persecution (1 Thessalonians 2:11-14). He also instructed them concerning the endtimes (2 Thessalonians 2:3-5). All this in two weeks!

This Church understood that persecution was a normal consequence once a life was committed to following Jesus. They expected it, and remained faithful in spite of it. Nowhere do we read that they were looking for an escape, a sudden mysterious rapture out of it. In fact the opposite is true. In the passage above they were told, and we as well, that relief finally comes at Christ's second coming.

This coming is visible, not secret, everyone will be aware, they will see, they will know. Jesus returning in flaming fire, with His angels, dealing out retribution is not a secret rapture. No, it is His return to gather His elect, and punish the wicked. This is when our relief comes according to scripture. 

Paul commended this Church for their faithfulness thru affliction. It is the same for us. Just like the Christians of old, we also need to faithfully endure hardship as well.

This is a plain indication of God's righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering.

2 Thessalonians 1:6

I fear we, at least here in the west, have bought into an easy Christianity that promises escape at the expense of teaching endurance. Generations have been spoon fed "Left Behind" theology. What will happen to them when things turn out different than that which was expected?

Not Destined to Wrath

1. Now as to the times and the epochs, brethren, you have no need of anything to be written to you.

2. For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night.

3. While they are saying, "Peace and safety!" then destruction will come upon them suddenly like birth pangs upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 

4. But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you like a thief;

5. for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness;

6. so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

7. For those who sleep do their sleeping at night, and those who get drunk get drunk at night. 

8. But since we are of the day, let us be sober,  having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation.

9. For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

1 Thessalonians 5:1-9

This passage is often used as a proof text by those promoting a pre-tribulational rapture of the Church. The emphasis is on the sudden, unexpected thief-like taking up of those who are "of the day" verses those who are "of the night" who are left behind to face the tribulation.  The passage then closes with the assurance that the Church is not appointed to wrath. This verse then, is taken to mean that the rapture must by necessity occur first, to remove believers from the earth before God pours out His wrath upon a sinful world.

It is possible to encounter a biblical text and read our preconceived ideas into it. That is the danger of searching for a "proof text." If however we come to scripture with an open mind, desiring to know and understand truth,  God will graciously give us understanding. 

The idea of a pre-trib rapture cannot be proven by concrete passages of scripture. The verses simply do not exist. Multiple verses, like those above, are often quoted as proof, but again, the belief has to be read into the verse. If taken at face value, these verses often state the opposite. 

Paul begins this section by reminding his readers that they do not need additional information concerning the times and seasons related to the endtimes events. They have a solid understanding. I once heard a Sunday School teacher tell the class that we shouldn't bother studying the end times as there are more important Biblical topics to study. He used these verses to make that claim. To the contrary, we find in the Bible numerous passages that foretell of these events, giving us a remarkable timeline with signs to watch for. God does not want us to be caught unaware as these events unfold.

The day of the Lord will indeed come like a thief, suddenly and unexpected. People will be caught unaware. There will be some form of a false peace that will lull many into complacency. Paul warns that destruction will come upon them suddenly. But a believer should not be caught by surprise. Paul goes on to differentiate between those who belong to Christ, and those who belong to this world. 

So since we are sons of light and not darkness we must be alert and sober minded. We must be in the word, and not only reading it, but obeying it, letting it transform our lives. And praying as we watch, so that we may escape what is coming upon the earth, and to  stand before Jesus at His return (Luke 31:36). We have all that we need in Jesus, and by His grace we need not slip back into darkness.

If we fail to watch, if we get bogged down with the cares and pursuits of this life, we will find ourselves in the same condition as those who will be caught by surprise by Christ's return.

34. "Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come upon you suddenly like a trap;

35. for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of the earth.

36. "But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."

Luke 21:34-36 NASB

This is not speaking about escape in the sense of a pre-tribulational rapture, but of strength to endure to end (see Matt 24:13).

Paul exhorts us to put on a breastplate of faith and love, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. This is a similar concept to the spiritual armour found in Ephesians 6:13-18. 

Jesus states thst the love of most will grow cold as the day of the Lord approaches (Matthew 24:12). He also asks a question thst we should take seriously. Will He find faith on the earth when He returns (Luke 18:8)? It should be noted that this question follows His teaching on persistent prayer.

As we walk in faith and love we must look  past any trial and hardship that comes our way and look to the day that our salvation is final. Peter tells us that we are protected by God's power through faith, for a salvation that will be revealed in the last time ( 1 Peter 1:3-15). 

Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 1:13

Back to what Paul wrote in his epistle to the Thessslonian Church. It all flows to the verse where he states that we are not destined or appointed to wrath, but to salvation. 

The pre-trib position maintains that God will not "beat up His bride",  therefore the Church must be removed so it will not go through His wrath. There are several errors in this position.

First, the persecution and hardship that will occur during the tribulation are not God's wrath being poured out. Persecution is a natural result of following Christ, and numerous passages of scripture affirm this fact. Nowhere do we read that this is God pouring out His wrath on those who are faithful to Him. In fact Jesus tells us to rejoice and be glad when we are persecuted because we are following in the steps of the great men of God who have gone before us (Matthew 5:11-12).

We read in Revelation 12:7-17 of a war in heaven, where Satan is cast down to the earth. This event triggers the final three and one half years known as the great tribulation. We will know that this has occurred when the Antichrist is revealed in the temple at what is referred to as "the abomination that causes desolation."

"For this reason, rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them. Woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has only a short time"....So the dragon was enraged with the woman, and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.

Revelation 12:12, 17

The persecution that believers will face during the great tribulation can be attributed to Satan's wrath. God is not "beating up His bride."

The second point that I will make concerns the bowls of God's wrath that are poured out during this time period. Revelation 16:1-21 make it clear that the intended recipients of God's wrath are those who have taken the mark, and worshipped the image of the beast (Rev 16:2), those who have persecuted the saints (Rev 16:5-6), and ultimately those who are hardened in their sin (Rev 16:8-11). It is the kingdom of the beast that will face the wrath of God. 

This is a event reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt. At that time God made a distinction between the children of Israel and Egypt. It will be the same again. God does not pour out His wrath on His children. He is fully capable of preserving His own while judging those who have filled up the measure of their sinful acts.

And thirdly, the ultimate day of wrath occurs at Christ's return. Revelation 14:14-20 describes the final harvest of the earth, with verses 19-20 describing the wicked being thrown into the great wine press of God's wrath.  Compare this passage with Isaiah 63:1-6 where we read of the day of God's day of redemption as well as His year of redemption. At the return of Jesus we read that men, regardless of wealth, strength, and honor, will hide themselves in caves and among the rocks. Why? They are hiding from the wrath of the Lamb (Revelation 6:12-17). 

There is a distinction between light and darkness,  night and day, those who are alert and sober, and those who will be caught unaware. We, as those who follow Jesus, are not destined to experience God's wrath, but to receive salvation at Christ's return in glory. This is not about escaping tribulation, but patient endurance in the face of tribulation.

Paul and a Theology of Martyrdom

As I have previously written, I believe that the Church today desperately needs to recover a "theology of martyrdom." Here is a link to that post.

Recovering a Theology of Martyrdom

In this post I would like to look specifically at the life and writings of the apostle Paul and elaborate on what he has to say about building the kingdom of God in the face of persecution and martyrdom.

The story of Paul begins in the book of Acts with the stoning of Stephen. The men who stoned him laid down their garments at the feet of a man named Saul (Acts 7:57-60). This event sparked a great persecution of the Church in Jerusalem, with Saul as a driving force behind it ( Acts 8:1-3). 

In his zeal to destroy the Church, Saul left for Damascus looking for any Christians that he might arrest and bring back to Jerusalem. It was on this road that he was stopped by Jesus Himself,

And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 

And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for you to kick against the pricks.

And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Acts 9:4-6 KJV

This event led to the conversion of Saul, who we also know as Paul. He was led to the house of a man named Judas on Straight street in Damascus where Annanias, who was sent by Jesus, placed his hands on him so that his sight would be restored and he would be filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:8-18). In a vision Annanias was told this, about God's calling upon the life of Saul,

"Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: for I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake."

Acts 9:15-16 KJV 

Previous to this event, as Saul persecuted the Church, he was likely    deeply convicted by the Holy Spirit, by what he witnessed when Stephen was martyred. To kick against the pricks was to resist guidance. Pricks (KJV) or goads were used to guide oxen. If one rebelled against this they were said to "kick against the goads."  According to Robertson's word pictures this became a proverb of that time period to refer to one who was rebellious. It is not a stretch to consider that Saul's rabid drive to stamp out the Church was at least in part, his attempt to shut out the voice of the Holy Spirit. I know from my own life, when I came under conviction, I ran long and hard in the opposite direction, trying to drown out my conscience. 

From the very beginning of Paul's Christian life hardship was a normal part. Indeed, he was to see how much suffering he was to endure for the sake of Christ. Within days of his conversion he openly proclaimed Christ to the Jews in Damascus. As a result, a plot was formed to kill him and he was lowered over the wall to escape this threat (Acts 9:19-25). The man who once persecuted the Church was now persecuted himself.

In 2 Corinthians 11:24-33 we read a list of Paul's physical suffering in his service to Christ. He was beaten, stoned, imprisoned, shipwrecked, faced dangers in his travels, faced hunger and the elements. He endured all of these things for Christ with a willingness that I fear is lacking among many professing Christians today in this country.

As he was on his way back to Jerusalem he sent for the elders from Ephesus to see them one final time. He had this to say to them,

    And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there.

Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

But none of these things move me,neither count I my life dear to myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify of the grace of God.

Acts 20:22-24 KJV

And the next chapter records a prophetic word warning Paul that he would be bound and turned over to the Gentiles when he arrived in Jerusalem (Acts 21:19-12). Here is his reply,

     Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and break my heart? For I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

Acts 21:13 KJV

Look at the boldness and determination in the heart of the apostle. His was a life thoroughly transformed by the Holy Ghost. His focus was on one thing, the completion of his service to God. Nothing else mattered, he would let nothing stand in the way, even willing to die in the process, if it came to that.

He elaborates more on this theme in his epistles to various Churches he established during his time of ministry. By looking at some of these we get a glimpse into his heart, and can see the depth of his commitment to Jesus.

     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.

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.

Philippians 1:20-24 KJV

Paul's unwavering purpose was to magnify Christ in everyway possible. He desired to show Christ to the world by his actions, attitudes, and speech. He had a calling to proclaim Christ to the Gentiles as we saw in Acts 9:15-16. So in life his passion, the mindset that drove him, was to glorify Christ. To remain alive in the flesh was the opportunity to continue pressing on in his desire to make Christ known to others. Yet death, even violent death for the sake of the gospel, was still yet another way to magnify Christ. 

Persecution has a way of encouraging others to become more bold in the faith. Paul brings this out earlier in this epistle. This letter was written to the Church in Philippi while Paul was imprisoned in Rome. He states that the very fact of his imprisonment has become an opportunity for the furtherance of the gospel. Many fellow believers have become confident due to Paul's bonds, and now speak the word boldly, without fear (Philippians 1:12-14).

So to Paul it did not matter if it was by life or by death, only that Christ was magnified. In fact, he states that he would rather depart and be with Christ. That is the ultimate thing for each one of us. Death, for a believer is only the doorway into the presence of Christ. If we know and love Jesus we have nothing to fear. In 2 Corinthians 5:1-9 Paul speaks of groaning for our heavenly bodies, desiring the day when death is swallowed up by life everlasting. He is confident, and willing to be absent from the body (to die) so that he can be in the presence of the Lord.

In the famous passage found in Philippians 3:7-14 where Paul counts all things as loss for the sake of Christ, we read this,

     That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

Philippians 3: 10 -11 KJV

Again, we see that the apostle does not shrink from suffering and even death for the sake of Christ. In fact he embraces it. He desires to partake of the sufferings and even the death of Christ. Just as Jesus suffered and died for us, Paul, in his love for Christ is willing to suffer and die for Him as well. Ultimately Paul realized the truth of the resurrection. Physical death in this life was not the end.

We read this in Colossians 1:24,

     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: whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God.

We, as the body of Christ now take up the mantle so to speak. Just as Jesus suffered afflictions, even to the point of death, now it is our turn as we carry out the mission He left us with. And yet when we suffer persecution for the cause of Christ it is Christ Himself who is persecuted. When Jesus spoke to Saul on the road to Damascus, he asked, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" (Acts 9:4)

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed but not in despair; persecuted but not forsaken; cast down but not destroyed; always bearing about in the body the dying of he Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you.

We having the same Spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. 

For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 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.

2 Corinthians 4:7-18 KJV

This passage alone sums up the entire point I am trying to make. The Apostle Paul, as a follower of Christ, we, as followers of Christ, are called to carry on the work of Jesus in our lives. Yes, it is hard work. Persecution is an inevitable result of our visible and active testimony. Why did Jesus ordain that this work should go forward, carried by individuals in fragile, mortal bodies? To show the excellency of the power of God in us! As we die to ourselves in humility, and begin to depend on Christ in our weakness, He becomes strong in us. God has taken what the enemy meant for evil, and turned it into good. This is how Christ continues the work he began. He does it through us, even in the midst of suffering.

Our job is to be faithful in obedience to the great commission, no matter the cost. If we believe, we must speak. And that, will cause a reaction. Like Paul, each one of us must be confident in the truth of the resurrection. Our bodies here are only temporary. They are already wearing out. We are not meant for self preservation, but to be offered up in service to Christ. Whether that ends in martyrdom or not is up to God. Our purpose, like Paul's, is to go, looking at the eternal instead of the temporal. What we face here is minor, compared to the glory of eternity with Jesus. 

For millions of Christ followers down through the centuries persecution and death has been a normal part of serving Jesus. Even today a vast number of Christians suffer and die for their faith. They also consider it normal. 

I recently listened to a radio program where an individual was recounting meeting with some persecuted believers in China. He was asked if he had ever been in prison, to which he replied that he had not. These persecuted believers at first seriously doubted his Christianity. To them it was normal to be persecuted for their faith as well.

Here in America it is kind of unusual. Yes, we have what we call "freedom of religion." We can meet without fear of arrest, and worship whatever we want to worship in freedom. Is this a blessing? Maybe, but I sometimes wonder. If people were more bold with their witness would things change some? I think so. And our freedom today may be gone tomorrow. In fact, the day is coming when there will be no "safe" place to openly proclaim Christ. Will we be willing to shine as lights in a perverse generation when that day comes (Philippians 2:15)?

What we have seen in the life of Paul is an example for us to follow as well,

     For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

Philippians 1:29-30 KJV

     

     

 

Recovering a Theology of Martyrdom

Here in America we have things pretty easy concerning our freedom to practice our faith. We have easy access to Bibles, Churches on every corner, and the ability to meet in any of those Churches without fear of persecution. While this makes it easier for us to gather to worship freely, and we count it a blessing, it also has it's downside as well.

I believe that after decades, centuries actually, of religious freedom in this country, we have lost a key part of what it means to follow Jesus. In his instructions to Timothy, Paul exhorts him to "Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus." (2 Tim:2:3) While most of us would agree that persecution and suffering for Jesus is a real thing, I believe that there are those who relegate it to believers in third world countries, or those living under oppressive regimes. Unable to relate to what so many of our brothers and sisters in Christ suffer around the world we envision persecution here as the advancement of "woke" policies or "attacks" on Christmas. The claim that we as Christians are losing our rights, and unless something happens we won't be able to be Christians here in America, has been "shouted from the rooftops" for some time now. But how does this reasoning line up with scripture? 

Persecution is promised.

"If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you.

If you were of the world, then the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you.

Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also  persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

But all these things they will do to you for My name's sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me.....

These things I have spoken to you so that you may be kept from stumbling.

They will make you outcasts from the synagogue, but an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering service to God. These things they will do because they have not known the Father or Me."

John 15:19-22, 16:1-3 NASB

As followers of Jesus we are not exempt from persecution and even death for our testimony. Even now,  people throughout the world are suffering greatly for their faith. Of course here we have relative freedom to practice our faith openly with very little threat, but I believe the day is coming when that will change, and we need to get ready now.

Freedom of religion is not something that any laws can guarantee. However we don't need laws to protect our commitment to Jesus either. Absolutely no one can take that away from you. It might cost you something, but you are free to be a Christian anywhere in this world. As Nik Ripken states,

     Believers in persecution remind us of a possible lie inherent in Western Christian cultures. We sometimes thank God that we live in countries where we are "free to worship." It is interesting that public prayers are rarely uttered thanking God that we are "free to witness"! Significantly, witnessing to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ has little to do with political freedom. Believers are as free to share Jesus in Saudi Arabia as they are in St. Louis. Believers are as free to share Jesus in Somalia as they are in Kentucky.

     Being a witness for Jesus has little to do with political freedom. On the contrary, our willingness to witness has everything to do with obedience and courage. 

( Nik Ripken

The insanity of Obedience ©2014

P 30)

This should step on toes. We do not have to go looking for persecution, if we are open with our witness, it will naturally come in one form or another. As we read in the verses above, we as believers are hated by the world in the same way the world hates Jesus. How long will that be "restrained" in America? 

What about my rights?

Here in this country we make a big deal about our rights. And to be sure, we have many rights that others do not have. But how far do we go to defend and fight for our rights? 

The call of Jesus is exacting. He says some very hard things. It is not about us at all, but His ultimate purpose for our lives.

     And He summoned the crowd with His disciples, and said to them, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.

For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it."

Mark 8:34-35 NASB

"So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions."

Luke 14:33 NASB

A transaction is made when we make the decision to follow Christ. Ownership of our lives, our possessions, our plans and purposes, comforts and fears transfer from us and our control, to Christ. We are in a very real sense not our own. We have been bought with a price (1 Cor 6:19-20).

This is what the lordship of Jesus means. He is now our master, and we are his "bond slaves." This term is used throughout the epistles. Paul understood the concept well. You sold yourself into the service of another for economic survival. You now lived to serve your master. Your personal decisions didn't count for much anymore 

Jesus tells us to deny ourselves and come after Him with our crosses on our backs. This is the same principle explained in another graphic way.

Crucifixion, under the Roman occupation, was a common scene for most people of the time. It would have been a common sight to see beaten and bloodied individuals struggling under the weight of a heavy beam on their way to a excruciating death. These men were "dead men walking." literally, their lives were over. Their plans and purposes, possessions, comforts and fears, meant absolutely nothing to them at this point. They were about to be fastened on a cross, completely helpless, waiting only to die.

Jesus, Himself, experienced the very same thing, and He used this as a metaphor for us to follow Him in "death to ourselves." Our lives, plans, purposes, comforts and fears, are no longer in our control. Jesus is calling the shots at this point. Our lives belong to Him, our job is to follow in obedience, no matter the cost. And for many, the cost of that obedience ends in martyrdom, the ultimate price to follow Jesus.

But what about Paul's appeal to his rights?

There are three instances recorded in scripture where Paul mentions his rights as a Roman citizen. People bring these up on occasion as a justification of the need to fight for our rights as American Christians.

In Acts 16:16-39 Paul and Silas are beaten and thrown into prison, without a trial, for casting a demon out of a slave girl in the Roman province of Philippi. It was unlawful to beat an uncondemned Roman Citizen. The next day when they were about to be released, Paul made the magistrates aware of this, causing some consternation among them. They no doubt were afraid that it might come back on them.

In Acts 22:24-30 Paul again appeals to his Roman citizenship when he is about to be scourged to find out why a mob had broken out against him. He then brought up the fact that it was unlawful to beat an uncondemned Roman citizen. Once it was determined that he was indeed a Roman citizen he was immediately untied, and again, the commander was afraid of what might happen as a result.

The third instance is Paul's appeal to appear before Caesar (Acts 25:1-10). Wishing to appease the Jews, the Roman governor Festus asked Paul if he would stand trial before him in Jerusalem. Paul, knowing it was all a sham, appealed to stand before Caesar in Rome, where he ought to be tried as a Roman citizen. 

What we can draw from these passages is that there may be times when it is okay to take advantage of  certain rights conferred on one by the government. For example prayer in school. As far as I know, prayer is allowed in school as long as a teacher is not leading a class in prayer. What if a teacher was simply praying over his or her lunch, by themselves, and the school board threatened disciplinary action? Would it be alright to remind them that prayer in this instance is not a prohibited action? I would think this would be fine, and might put the issue to rest.

However, the belief  that we as Christians are called to fight for our rights cannot be found in the New Testament teachings. There were plenty of instances in the life and ministry of the apostle Paul where he did suffer wrong and did not pursue recourse. That night in the Philippian jail Paul and Silas were singing and praising God in spite of the beating they had just received. I find it hard to believe that they were planning to turn in those responsible for breaking the  Roman law that forbid beating an uncondemned citizen.

Jesus is the example of the opposite. He taught and lived humility. His message was one of forgiveness and turning the other cheek. Going the extra mile demanded a lot of grace from a people living under Roman occupation. And the mandate to make disciples in every nation is a huge undertaking itself. There is no time or energy to be spent on things that detract from that mission. While it may be fine to take advantage of freedoms we have, we have no guarantee that we will have those freedoms tomorrow. When that day comes our mission still remains the same, only now the consequences change. We are better off preparing now for when that time comes, than occupying our time and energy in a battle to maintain our rights.

Martyrdom has a purpose.

It has been said that the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church. This is a true statement, that can be proven by history. 

Stephen is the first recorded martyr for Christ in the New Testament. The man holding the cloaks of those throwing the stones was named Saul. This began a severe persecution that scattered the believers throughout the known world. Saul was driven by his zeal, and was relentless in his pursuit of Christians. When he was divinely stopped on the road to Damascus we read that he had been kicking against the goads. In other words, something happened when he witnessed Stephen's death that haunted him on the inside. The conviction of the Holy Spirit was getting the best of him.  (Acts 7:54-8:1, 26:9-18). Saul, also known as Paul was saved and went on to be incredibly used by God in the establishment of His Kingdom.

Reformation history records the terrible persecution and death that the Anabaptist Christians suffered for their faith. The missionaries they sent out were quickly arrested, tortured, and killed in the most inhuman ways, only to be just as quickly replaced with more. They spread the gospel to hungry people desperate for the truth, with little regard for their own comfort. It was indeed a movement fueled by persecution, that could not be stopped. I recommend getting a copy of the Martyrs Mirror, which chronicles the suffering and martyrdom of these courageous people.

Or how about the five missionaries who were killed in 1956 trying to make contact with the Waodani tribesmen, a fierce, unreached people deep in the jungles of Ecuador. While the world might think that this was a tragic waste of life, it turned out quite the opposite. In a unforseen twist of events, the widows and families of these men ended up forgiving, befriending, and living among the very same people who had killed their husbands. People were saved, a Church was planted. A people group who were for all practical purposes unreachable, were brought to Christ as a result. The blood of the Martyrs is the seed of the Church.

What Satan means for evil God can turn around for good. In fact God's kingdom can be referred to as an "upside down kingdom" as it operates on opposite principles than that of the world. While the world looks at suffering and death as a defeat, it is in reality a victory for those who follow Jesus.

     And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.

Revelation 12:11 NASB

Consider the words of Jesus found in John 12:23-26,

     And Jesus answered them, saying, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.

Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.

He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal.

If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.

Jesus is the ultimate example for us. By His death and resurrection He has truly born much fruit. He speaks in no uncertain terms. We must follow Him, even unto death. If our bearing fruit means martyrdom we dare not shrink back. If we seek to preserve our lives we will lose them in the end. Self preservation stands in opposition to the greater purpose of God. 

What is a martyr?

The Greek word translated witness, or witnesses is Martus. It is found 34 times in the King James New Testament. This word is used of people who give witness or testimony of something. A variant of the word, martureo is in verb form, to give testimony of something, and the word marturia refers to the testimony itself. This is where our word martyr comes from

While this testimony, or witness can be that of anything, it was often used in the witness of one's faith in Christ, the resurrected Lord. This witness often led to the death of the one giving this testimony of the truth of the gospel.

And when the blood of your witness (martus) Stephen was being shed....

Acts 21:20

And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness (martus), the first born of the dead, and the ruler of the Kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood...

Rev 1:5

I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is; and you hold fast My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness (martus), My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.

Rev 2:13

And I will grant authority to my two witnesses (martus), and they will prophesy for twelve hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.

Rev 11:3

And when they have finished their testimony (marturia), the beast that comes up out of the abyss will make war with them, and overcome them and kill them.

Rev 11:7

And I saw a woman drunk with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the witnesses (martus) of Jesus. When I saw her I wondered greatly.

Rev 17:6

And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony (marturia) of Jesus and because of the word of God...

Rev 20:4

Robertson's word pictures state that by the third century this word, martus, had become synonymous with one who had paid for their witness with their lives.

History is filled with countless numbers of individuals who have paid the ultimate price for the testimony of Jesus. Even today there are thousands of Christians living in countries where persecution and martyrdom are everyday occurrences. Just because we live in a country where there is relative safety to be a Christian does not necessarily make us exempt. The New Testament teaches that persecution is a normal reaction of a hostile world to the testimony of Christ. Ultimately the time is coming when the world will face the greatest crisis it has ever seen. There will be no holding back the tide of evil when that day comes. Are we prepared for what is to come? Will you be a faithful martus?

Counting the cost.

"Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.

At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another.

Many false prophets will arise and mislead many.

Because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold.

But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved."

Matthew 24:9-13 NASB

Have we as Christians over the years made it too easy? Instead of a deep soul searching leading to a unwavering repentance, and commitment to follow Christ, we now can just slip up a hand with no one looking. I do not wish to offend anyone, but Jesus Himself sets a very hard standard for those who would follow Him. The reformation era Anabaptist Christians knew what the narrow gate meant (Matt 7:13-14). In reference to the terrible suffering they faced for their witness, they said that their skin was torn off as they went through the narrow gate 

Denying ourselves, taking up our crosses, living lives completely sold out to Jesus at all cost, following Him even in death, are the standards of the gospel. Yes, salvation is a free gift. You will not earn it by giving your body to be burned (see 1 Cor 13:3). But faith in Christ is more than believing things. It is living out the reality of what we believe. And if we believe that Jesus died and is now the risen Lord and calls us to follow Him, we must follow Him on His terms or not follow Him at all.

In Luke 14:25-34 Jesus repeats the demands required to be a disciple. He demands our allegiance over all other relationships. He calls on us to count the cost. We must be aware of what it means and what it requires to follow Him. He gives two examples. A man building a tower will calculate his expenses before he begins. If he does not, and he runs out of money after he has begun, he faces humiliation. Or a king going to war better be sure that he actually has the manpower to win. If not he better seek peace instead. 

It is imperative that we also count the cost. A man may begin to build a house and not be able to finish, but that is nothing compared to a person starting out to follow Jesus but falling away when unexpected difficulties arise. Now is the time to think long and hard about what it means to follow Jesus; about what He requires, and what it might cost us. Persecution is not a fun, uplifting subject to talk about, but it is a very real part of being a Christian. It is better to know what may come and be prepared beforehand, then to be taken by surprise and give up.

Blessed are the persecuted.

"Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.

Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the Prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:10-12 NASB

Therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure.

This is a plain indication of God's righteous judgement so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering.

For after all it is only just for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you,

and to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His angels in flaming fire,

dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.

These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,

when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and be marvelled at among all who have believed - for our testimony to you was believed.

2 Thessalonians 1:4-10 NASB

Believe it or not, there is a reason to rejoice in the midst of suffering persecution. It is a sign that we are not of this evil world, but are citizens of a heavenly kingdom. We are to rejoice and be glad because our reward is great if we endure.

This can be compared to childbirth. The labor is hard and painful, but the birth of a child is the goal. Countless numbers of women have endured the pain of labor because they are looking forward to the end; the birth of a child. To them it is worth it all.

To be martyred is only a gateway into the presence of Jesus. The pain is only temporary. 

     For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,

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.

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NASB

In Revelation 7:9-17 we read of a great multitude from every tongue, tribe and nation standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They have come out of the great tribulation and have washed their robes in His blood.

     "For this reason, they are before the throne of God; and they serve Him day and night in His temple; and He who sits on the throne will spread His Tabernacle over them.

They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun beat down on them, nor any heat;

for the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and will guide them to springs of the water of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes.

Revelation 7:15-17 NASB

All that they have suffered will pale in comparison as they dwell in the very presence of God. All of the pain and suffering will be gone, every tear will be wiped away by God Himself. They will live in His presence for eternity, as opposed to those who have rejected Him in this life.

Then I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgement was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony of Jesus and because of the word of God, and those who had not worshipped the beast or his image, and had not received the mark on their forehead and in their hand; and they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years 

Revelation 20:4 NASB

No one likes the idea of suffering. The idea of a great tribulation is a terrifying thought. Yet it must come before the return of Christ. As believers we must keep that in focus. To give up, to deny Christ in the face of death is to lose it all. 

So what do we do now?

It is hard to write out a checklist of everything we must do to prepare for possible martyrdom. No one knows how they will react until the moment arrives. We can be like Peter and make rash declarations of our willingness to die for Jesus only to fail miserably in the end.

To be sure we must count the cost and commit ourselves to following Jesus. Now is the time to cultivate our faith. If we cannot grow now while we have so much freedom how can we expect to stand when the evil day comes? 

Our love for Jesus must be unwavering. What parent wouldn't risk running into a burning house to rescue a missing child? In the same way, our love for Christ compels us to live and die for Him. To love Him is to long to be with Him. Unless you or I are alive and remain at His return, death is the doorway into His presence. And during the final great tribulation, martyrdom will be the primary way out. Pray now, be filled with His Spirit continually, and trust Him to give you what you need when you need it.

A common verse about peace is found in Isaiah 26:3.

     The steadfast of mind you will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in you.

It is interesting to note that the surrounding chapters are prophetic. It is talking about what is referred to as the great tribulation. God is able to give us peace, even in the midst of the severest trouble.

"These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.

John 16:33 NASB

This is a hard subject. People do not like to talk about these things. I'm often misunderstood. I do not wish for persecution, I'm not hoping it comes, but only trying to prepare people for the day it does. The Bible is quite clear on this subject, and it is only a matter of time when here in the West we also will experience what so many have already experienced. Will our generation be the ones? If not we must prepare the next one.

      

     

     

End Times Faith

 "Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come upon you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man." (Luke 21:34-36 NASB)

The bible foretells of terrible days ahead of us, the final days of this age. We are warned throughout scripture of coming apostacy (2 Thess 2:3, 1Tim 4:1, Matt 24:10-12). Deception will increase (Matt 24:24, 2 Thess 2:8-12). Persecution such as the world has never seen will come upon us (Matt 24:9-10). Will we be ready? Will we be able to stand?

Right now, we have things fairly easy here in America. We do not face any real persecution, we have liberty to worship, bibles are readily available to anyone who wants one. Now is the time to build up our faith (Jude 20) because once we are in the storm our feeble faith will not sustain us. 

Now more than ever we must immerse ourselves in the word of God. We need to know what we believe and why. We must be actively living out our faith, as a living faith is a working faith (James 2:17, Heb 5:13-14, 6:11-12). And how about our prayer lives?

Jesus tells a parable of a persistent widow, and an unjust judge (Luke 18:1-8). His intent is to teach us to pray at all times without giving up. This widow appeared again and again, seeking justice from a judge who was unwilling to give her what she asked for. finally, because he was tired of her, he grants her request. How much more is God, who is just and caring, willing to bring about justice for us, who cry out to Him day and night? Jesus tells us that He is more than willing to bring it about. However, He leaves us with a sobering statement, "However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18:8)

If you are prayerless now, will you be prayerless under intense persecution? If you're a spiritual infant now, can you expect to mature under fire? What will your faith look like when Jesus comes back? Will He find you standing firm through to the end (Matt 24:13)? Will you be watchful and prayerful, because that is going to be what we will need in that hour. We need to ruthlessly trust in the one who is able to keep us from falling, and to make us stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy (Jude 24). We are protected by God through faith for a salvation that will be revealed at Christ's second coming. This is when the proof of our faith will be revealed, the faith that endures fiery trial, and comes out firm (1 Peter 1:4-7).

The Persecuted Church

      The second church addressed in Revelation chapter two is the one found in Smyrna. Like the others, this church was located in Asia Minor as well; what we now know as modern-day Turkey. This was a group of believers who were already facing hardship and were about to face increased persecution.

     And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things sayeth the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold the Devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches, He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death (Rev 2:8-11 KJV).

     These words came from the one who lives, but was dead, the one who is alive forevermore and holds the keys of hell and death (Rev 1:18). Jesus tells us to fear not. He warns us that persecution will come to those who follow Him (John 15:18-21). In fact, He assures us that persecution is a blessing, and tells us to rejoice when it happens (Matt 5:10-12).

     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 (Matt 10:28 KJV). As we read above, Jesus has conquered death and the grave, and as a result, eternal life awaits those who overcome. Therefore, we should not let fear keep us from following Jesus. This life is temporary, and the hardships we face are only a moment in eternity. Those who are ashamed of Jesus will find that He is ashamed of them as well (Mark 8:38). However, we read the opposite of those who overcome,

     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 (Rev 12:11 KJV). 

     Multitudes of Christians have suffered persecution down through the ages, all around the world. Wherever the Church has suffered, it has also thrived in this way. This is the secret, to love not our lives unto death. We are told of a coming time of tribulation that will be unlike anything the world has ever seen. We must cast off fear, and rise in boldness, remembering the words of our Lord concerning persecution. He has warned us of it, and told us not to fear what man can do to us. We are to expect it, count ourselves blessed, and rejoice that we can suffer for His sake. 

     And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved (Matt 10:22 KJV).

     He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son (Rev 21:7KJV).

     

Ashamed Of Jesus.

"I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have no more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him! Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows. And I say unto you, everyone who confesses Me before men, the Son of Man will confess him also before the angels of God; but he who denies Me before men will be denied before angels of God. (Luke 12:4-9 NASB)

 Jesus warns us that we are not to fear man, who can only kill the body. Rather, we are to fear the one who after He has killed the body, can cast it into hell. This is a very solemn warning that we need to pay more careful attention to. It can be so easy to remain silent when those around us are mocking Christianity. Like the ten spies sent into the land of Canaan, we too are often overwhelmed by fear, and perceive that those who stand in opposition to Jesus Christ are much larger than they really are. Yet, as Jesus says, they can only kill the body and no more. We are not to fear them, but to fear God.We also receive the comforting promise that God cares for us. The same God who cares for the birds, cares for us as well. We read of Stephen, as the enraged mob was about to stone him,  

But being full of the Holy Spirit, he gazed intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened up and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." (Acts 7:55-56 NASB)

God gave Stephen what he needed to face the hour of trial, the Lord Jesus himself standing up for His faithful martyr. 

We are given the promise that if we confess Christ before men, He will confess us before the angels. We are also given the warning that if we deny Him before men, He will deny us. In Mark 8:38 we read, 

"For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of Him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels." (Mark 8:38 NASB) 

Indeed, we live in an adulterous and sinful generation. There are many who compromise with the world around them. There are those who choose to remain silent out of fear, or out of a desire not to offend someone. To them, Jesus' warning is clear and sobering. We dare not be ashamed of the one who gave His life for us. His words are truth and bring life. How can we, His followers, be ashamed of Him and His words? Yet, the temptation is very real, and like Peter, even though we may say we would never deny Him, we so often do (Matt 26:33-35). 

The same Peter who denied Christ, was filled with boldness on the day of Pentecost, as he stood before the jeering crowd and boldly proclaimed Christ crucified and risen from the dead. From that point on, we see the boldness and zeal of the early Church, as they spread the gospel in the face of persecution. May we possess that same spirit today, and boldly stand for Christ in our generation.

Strangers and Exiles.

All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a country of their own.
                                                               Hebrews 11:13-14 NASB


    

     There are two kingdoms. The kingdom of this world, and the kingdom of God. These two stand in stark opposition to one another. The one is built upon selfish principles, the other humility and love.
     Jesus tells us that unless one is born again, he cannot enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3-5). The thing that keeps us out is our pride. As selfish individuals we live for self, at the expense of others. This pride ultimately refuses to submit to God, shutting us out of His kingdom. Only through the new birth, the washing of regeneration, and the renewal of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5), can this selfish principle be eradicated from our lives, making us fit for the kingdom of God.
     Those who have entered Christ's kingdom, through the new birth, are now at odds with the kingdom of this world. It is true, that by our physical birth, we are citizens of this world; we live in the various nations that make up this world, but now we reside in this world as strangers and exiles. We are like pilgrims passing through a strange land. This world is not our home.
     As followers of Jesus, we now live for a different purpose, and have different motives for our actions. This is clearly spelled out for us in the teachings of Jesus, in particular, the "Sermon on the Mount" found in Matthew 5-7. Jesus shows us that the things esteemed by the world, are worthless by the standards of His kingdom. As a result, those who would live by the principles Christ set forth, will find themselves at odds with this world. In fact, they will be rejected. The world in all of its pride, has no room for the meek and humble, no room for those who love their enemies, and who willingly forgive those who wrong them, and despises those who value purity over the pleasures that it has to offer.
     The Apostle Peter addresses the recipients of his first epistle as aliens (1 Peter 1:1). They were not only strangers on this earth, but were also driven from their country as well, because of their faith. Jesus warned us that we would be persecuted for his sake. Just as the world rejected Him, it will also reject His followers (Matt 5:10; John 15:18-20). As the Apostle Paul says, "Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12).
     In our "American Christianity" we are suddenly becoming aware of a great dividing line. As we see the blurring of truth, and the mass acceptance of sin in our culture, and even among those in the "professing" church, we are forced to either blindly conform to this evil world, or go against the current. It is becoming painfully evident that those who choose to stand alone on the side of righteousness, are in the minority. It is unpopular to stand for Jesus according to biblical principles, and those who choose to do so are finding out that the world does not understand them. In fact we see true Christians being slandered and maligned, in the things they say and do (1 Peter 3:16).
     Peter tells us that as aliens and strangers, we are to abstain from the fleshly lusts that war against our souls. We are to keep our behavior excellent among the inhabitants of this world, so that although they may slander us as evildoers, our good behavior will cause them to glorify God in the day of visitation (1 Peter 2:11-12).
     We are called to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. This verse tells us that we stand out as lights in this world (Philippians 2:15). Jesus has called us to be light in a dark world. We are to let our light shine before men, so that they may see our good works, and glorify God (Matt 5:14-16). Paul tells us to expose the deeds of darkness (Eph 5:11-14). We have a purpose in this world, to point the way to Christ by our witness, and by our lives. This is why we must not compromise, not give way, and not shrink in fear. Even though we are strangers here, we are ambassadors for Christ, God working through us, to reconcile the world unto Himself (2 Cor 5:19-20).
    
    
   
    

Entering the Kingdom Through Many Tribulations.

     There seems to be this idea in our western evangelical mindset, that once we have come to Christ, everything is somehow supposed to go smooth for the rest of our lives. Thousands of modern day American Christians are comfortably waiting for the day when we will be raptured, and go to glory, with no troubles, no persecution, no dying for our faith.
     This idea however, does not really resemble the way the Christian life is portrayed in the scriptures. Look at the words of Jesus in the sermon on the Mount. He tells us that we are blessed when we are persecuted, slandered, and insulted, because of Christ. Just as the prophets of old were persecuted, we too can expect the hatred of the world (Matt 5:10-12). Jesus tells us that the disciple is not greater than his master. As Jesus was persecuted, so will we be persecuted (John 15:20). Jesus is telling us to expect it; it will happen. As Paul states, "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Tim 3:12). Once again, if we truly desire to live out our faith in a radical way, we will be persecuted for it. By radical, I mean to follow the commands of Christ. To be radical is to take scripture serious enough to actually put it into practice. To do this will invite the scorn of the world. This also includes the religious world. Backslidden, as well as nominal Christians are offended by truth, whether lived out in front of them, or spoken.
     In the book of Acts we read that it is through many tribulations that we enter into the kingdom (Acts 14:22). There has been persecution since the days of Cain and Abel. God's children have always suffered at the hands of wicked men. Jesus tells us that brother will betray brother to death, fathers will deliver up their children, and children their parents. We are clearly warned by Christ that the one who endures to the end will be saved (Matt 24:10-13; Mark 13:12-13). This is not the gospel that we hear in so many of our churches today. Thousands of Christians have suffered for their faith down through the centuries, and thousands are suffering even now. We tend to look at it as a geographic issue. We live in a country that tolerates Christianity better than other countries. It is true, we don't face some of the dangers that a Christian might in a more hostile country, but we are wrong to believe that we somehow are blessed enough to avoid persecution. If that was the case, the above mentioned scriptures would be false.
     The fact of the matter is this, the world stands opposed to true righteousness. Anybody who takes a real stand for the truth, who boldly lives by biblical standards, and who fearlessly proclaims the word of God to the lost world around them, will invite the world's hatred. A person who hates God, will hate you, if you take His name in truth.
     Jesus tells us that if we are ashamed of Him and His words in this wicked and sinful generation, He will be ashamed of us (Mark 8:38; Luke 9:26). Sadly, we see a carnal "Church" that is ashamed to stand up for Jesus. They reject His words as being offensive and intolerant. This is a big reason why we see so little persecution here in America. It is difficult to differentiate between the "Church" and the world. Let the true Christians stand up however, and the world will despise them. You will lose friends, people will insult you, slander and malign you, if you but only stand up for Christ.
     You can see the moral climate changing here. It will only get worse for those who love Christ, and are willing to live and speak for Him. Remember, Christ has told us these things beforehand, to keep us from stumbling (John 16:1).

Which City Are We Seeking?

     Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate.
     So, let us go out to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach.
     For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come.
                                Hebrews 13:12-14 NASB

     I want to ask professing Christians some very serious questions. Which city are you living for? Which kingdom are you seeking? Is it the heavenly kingdom of Christ, or the world in which we live?
     The Bible speaks of Christians as those who are seeking a heavenly kingdom. Look at the above text. It says to us that just as Christ went outside the gate to die for our sanctification, so we to are to bear His reproach outside the camp.
     Outside the camp was the place where refuse was discarded and burned (Hebrews 13:11). This is not a pleasant place to think of going out to, but being a true follower of Christ in this world is not always an easy pleasant thing to be either. The world will despise those who have renounced it and its ways. History has shown us how this world has treated godly men and women down through the ages. It has scorned them, mocked them, imprisoned them, and killed them.
     The temptation for many is to please man rather than God. We might claim to be Christians but remain silent, watch what we say, compromise the truth, etc. Jesus said if we are ashamed of Him, He is ashamed of us. It is just that simple (Mark 8:38)! If are trying to please man, then we are not servants of Christ (Galatians 1:10).
     This world is not our home! We must go outside the camp, just like Christ! Be willing to suffer reproach.
       This world is only temporary. It will not last, so why do we spend ourselves in pursuit of all that it can offer us? Someday all that can be shaken will be shaken. Only the Kingdom of God will remain. That is what we stand to inherit as followers of Christ, and not this world (Hebrews 12:26-28). 
     Jesus told us to lay up eternal treasure, to live for eternal things, not temporal material things (Matthew 6:19-21). What we pursue, the things that take up our time, thoughts, money, effort, are what we worship! That is right. Is Jesus Christ enthroned in your heart? Are you consumed by Him and His service, or are you consumed by the things of this life? Are you spending your days living for temporal things? Even things innocent and even needful can become snares and idols to us!
     Look at men like Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Bible tells us that they did not consider this world their home. They were looking to the city whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:10, 13-14). They had come out of this world. They did not look back at what they had left or else they would have returned to it (Hebrews 11:15). Remember Lot's wife looked back as Sodom and Gomorrah were burning up? Where do you suppose her heart was (Genesis 19:24-26)?
     Jesus said that no one who puts his hand to the plow and then looks back is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62). What are we looking at, our eternal home with Christ, or our temporal life on this earth?
     These patriarchs of renown did not look back from where they came from, but looked to the heavenly kingdom they would one day possess. They clung to the promise of God by faith while living on this earth, and God was not ashamed to be called their God ( Hebrews 11:16). 
     What about us? Is God unashamed to be called our God, or do we bring Him reproach by our worldly mindedness?  What our we looking forward to, the city whose builder and maker is God, or mere material things that will someday be shaken and destroyed?
     As Christians, we are indeed strangers and pilgrims upon this earth. Let us live like it.



    

Convictions Worth Dying For.

     It seems that a majority of "Christians" today do not hold too tightly to their convictions. They may hold to various beliefs and convictions, but are easily persuaded to compromise, lay these beliefs aside, or just remain silent. 
     I understand that there are some things that are personal, and we are not to judge another on these things (Romans 14:1-13). This is not what I am referring to. I am writing here about Jesus Christ, and our unwavering commitment to follow Him as Lord of our lives, no matter where it leads us, and how much it costs us.
     The Anabaptists of the sixteenth century are a little known group of people who grew out of the reformation. They followed Christ with an all out passion. Their property was confiscated, they were imprisoned, tortured, and put to death for their beliefs.
     What were these beliefs that meant so much to them? They believed that the scriptures were for them, that they were to be believed and lived out. They believed that the kingdom of God was within them, Christ was the head of the Church, not a city council or other form of human government. They rejected the notion that the consecrated bread became the body of Christ during communion. They saw the communion elements as symbolic of Jesus body and blood. They saw that infant baptism was not biblical. They believed that one was to be baptized upon a true confession of faith. They took the words of Jesus to love ones enemies quite literally. They went out as missionaries throughout Europe preaching repentance from sin and faith towards God, baptizing all who truly believed. Revival followed them. Multitudes embraced the message of the gospel and were baptized as a seal of their surrender to Christ.
     They were at odds not only with the Roman Catholic Church, but were also branded as rebels and heretics by the leaders of the reformation as well. It was Martin Luther himself who declared that they must be put to death for their rebellion against church authority. This did not discourage or stop them. They picked up their cross and followed Christ all the way, many of them to the death.
     We need the boldness and conviction that these Christians, and many others throughout history had. Many today are suffering untold horrors in other lands while we waffle and waver and remain silent, afraid to ruffle feathers and go against the current. We see so much worldliness in the church and do nothing. We follow along as we see a church fighting spiritual battles in the political arena. We have become materialistic, storing up treasures on earth instead of heaven. We know nothing of true cross bearing for the sake of Christ. The modern message of Christ has become so watered down and distorted, but most of us say nothing, sadly many of us do not even realize this is happening. 
     God, grant us the grace to stand for you! Wake us up and give us courage! May we hold firmly to Godly convictions, and change this world for you.