Restart: Compassion and JusticeSample

PERSECUTION The path of following Jesus often leads to persecution. For those who’ve grown up in a culture of freedom and choice, it is easy to forget that there are places where certain decisions can result in oppression, exclusion, persecution, and even death. Before his death on the cross, Jesus warned his followers that they would be persecuted by both religious and secular authorities. For some, their own families would turn against them. Jesus’ predictions came true in the lives of Peter, John, James, Paul and many others through the years who took a stand for Christ. Most of Jesus’ disciples were imprisoned, beaten, and eventually executed. In North America, we may be scorned or ridiculed, but we are rarely arrested for our faith. In many countries throughout the world, however, thousands of Christians face terrible persecution. Many pay the ultimate price of faith: giving their lives. In many sales advertisements, only the good aspects of an event are emphasized. Why do you think Jesus warns his followers about the bad—persecution to come? When have you heard about or witnessed the suffering of others for Christ? Read about those who suffer persecution. How can you encourage those who undergo persecution for their faith? Request an e-mail prayer alert from an organization that works to help persecuted Christians. Pray: Have mercy, Lord, on those who are mistreated. Keep them strong and rescue them from death.