Sign In
Store
I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away. They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. John 16:1–2
D.L. MOODY
A man said to me some time ago: “Mr. Moody, now that I am converted, have I to give up the world?”
“No,” said I, “you haven’t to give up the world. If you give a good ringing testimony for the Son of God, the world will give you up pretty quick; they won’t want you.”
ERWIN LUTZER
When Moody used the word world he was talking about the world of people, not the world system John warned about (1 John 2:15–17). But yes, all who live for Christ will be despised by at least some people in the world, and perhaps even suffer for our faith. There is suffering that comes to us because of the fallenness of this world: sickness, heartache, broken relationships, or poverty. But there’s another kind of suffering that comes because we bear the name of Jesus.
Some Christians have decided to blend into the culture so that they experience no pushback because of their faith. Such Christians almost always are silent about their conversion; no one knows they are a Christ follower. But Christians are called to suffer. Jesus told His disciples that, since the world hated Him, the world will also hate them (see John 15:18). A servant is not above the master.
Philippians 1:29 says, “It has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake.” Suffering is part of our responsibility as believers. We who believe on Him should gladly suffer because of Him. Let us expect it. Anticipate it. That is our calling.
PRAYER
Father, help me to suffer well. Help me to lovingly share the gospel and receive any pushback with gratitude that I have been found worthy to suffer, even if but a little for you.REFLECTION QUESTIONS
Throughout the history of the church believers have suffered for their faith. Are you prepared to suffer for the Lord?
What passages of Scripture can comfort you during trials and persecution?