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They would not give up, even if it meant burning to death. Refusing to worship Nebuchadnezzar's golden image, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were cast into a blazing furnace--uncertain of survival, but certain that God vindicates the righteous (Dan. 3:8-30). Centuries later, Stephen boldly proclaimed the gospel even as he faced death by stoning (Acts 7:54-60). The apostles continued to preach Christ despite being continuously flogged and imprisoned (Acts 5:40-42; 12:1-5; 16:22-24). And ever since, an innumerable number of faithful saints have endured fiery persecution in the form of ostracization, deprivation, starvation, and execution; and, unexpectedly, Jesus taught that those who face such persecution are blessed: "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:10).
Persecution is the roaring lion's way of attempting to frighten the church into silence. However, Jesus taught that persecuted Christians have no reason to fear; rather, they should rejoice because they are living like their Savior. When you look like the Christ which the world hates, the world will hate you, too (John 15:18-19). That is why persecution, no matter how brutal, is actually a blessing. Therefore, Peter encouraged, "If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you" (1 Peter 4:14).
And no one understands persecution more than Jesus. He was expelled from towns, accused of being demonic, unjustly tried, and eventually hung on a criminal's crucifix. Thus, persecution is not a possibility for those who live and look like Jesus--it's a promise. That is why Paul stated, "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" (2 Tim. 3:12, KJV). And as Jesus Himself taught, "But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake" (Luke 21:12).
This column is from 40 Days with Jesus, my 40-day devotional on Christ's life, teachings, and miracles, available for purchase on Amazon.
