APP: Persecution is dreadful. It’s the organized mistreatment of an individual or group. It comes in many types, but the most common ones are political, religious, and ethnic. Throughout history millions have experienced maltreatment resulting in murder, extermination, enslavement, and other cruel acts committed against civilian populations. It’s weird to think that it’s still happening today when we are supposed to be living in an “age of tolerance.” For centuries those who follow Jesus have been tortured. Millions have been killed for their faith. This is something that comes with being a Christian. It shouldn’t surprise you when others unfairly criticize you or they try to hurt you because of your beliefs and the way you live. Don’t quit or give up. Instead, keep doing what you know is right and pleases God. Jesus said we should be happy when we’re persecuted for our faith. Get real—that’s not easy to do. Even though you may not totally understand why you are being abused for following Jesus, it’s a good sign. It means that you are being faithful and making a difference. If you weren’t, nobody would notice. And remember, God rewards those who remain faithful.
Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
2 TIMOTHY 3:12 NASB
“Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me [Jesus]. 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 5:11–12 NASB
Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them.
ROMANS 12:14 NLT
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
MATTHEW 5:10 NIV
“If the world hates you, remember that it hated me [Jesus] first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A slave is not greater than the master.’ Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you.”
JOHN 15:18–20 NLT