SATURDAY February 28, 2026

Companions of Christians

But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings: partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated....
Hebrews 10:32-33

Paul reminded the Jews of how they were illuminated, which means “to enlighten spiritually with saving knowledge.” They had the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, but, as a result, they were persecuted. Jews who placed their faith in Jesus Christ for their salvation lost family and friends who completely disowned them. Their persecution was public, as they became a spectacle to others who witnessed their reproaches and tribulation. Jewish believers suffered tremendously.

Paul reminded them, “Remember what you went through when you came to Jesus Christ.” They had counted the cost of suffering because they closely associated with Christians as their companions. Again, in former times, they were ostracized and tormented, and some were even killed––martyred. After all they had endured, were they willing to give up and turn away from Christ? Their tribulations, were they all for nothing?

Today there is a renewed hatred of Christians and Jews. Persecution is here, but will you count the cost of following Jesus Christ? All over the world, Christians and Jews are being persecuted. Radical Islamists have targeted 3 million believers in Nigeria in what has been called “Christian genocide.” They are under siege!

In Iran, house churches are raided, and believers are arrested and interrogated. They are often condemned to long prison sentences. Converts are also often accused of being spies and are swiftly executed. There is already a demonic, anti-Christ spirit that is working in the world, and we need to be aware. Persecution is never pleasant. If you become a Christian, you gain eternity; but with that hope, expect persecution.

The Lord challenges us to suffer persecutions and to confess Him. He wants those who belong to him to be brave and fearless. He himself shows how weakness of the flesh is overcome by courage of the Spirit....A Christian is fearless.
~Tertullian~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!