Thomas Watson in his book The Beatitudes wrote, "It shows us what the nature of Christianity is, namely, sanctity joined with suffering. A true saint carries Christ in his heart and the cross on his shoulders." (p. 269) There has been persecution of God's people throughout history. Persecutiion has been greater at certain times than others. There has been persecution of Old Testament saints and persecution of New Testament saints. The Lord Jesus, Himself, was persecuted when He came into this world. There is persecution going on right now even as we speak in places like India, Africa, China, and other places. Many Christians have given their lives for their faith. The advance of the gospel has always cost lives. This is not surprising. When the gospel advances, the Kingdom of Satan is destroyed. Satan does not stand idly by as His Kingdom is attacked. He resists. He attacks God's people. One of the greatest advances of the gospel took place at the Reformation. Yet, at the same time some of the worst persecution of God's people took place during that period. Even though persecution comes to God's people in this world - God has promised that the victory will be ours. Christians are victorious through persecution. Jesus said the church would go through tribulation. He also promised victory. The church pictured in Revelation comes out of great tribulation but comes out victorious. This we must keep in mind. Persecution is only temporary. It will not last. The victory belongs to God's people.
August 1, 2015
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