We too!

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” 2 Timothy 3:12

In countries like Nigeria, Pakistan, and North Korea, Christians face extreme violence, imprisonment, and even death for their faith. Churches are burned, believers are attacked, and many are forced to worship in secret, risking their lives to follow Christ. Meanwhile, we too in the West suffer persecution though in more subtle ways but nonetheless real. It comes in the form of legal pressures, workplace discrimination, cultural ridicule (such as mockery in popular media, negative stereotyping in entertainment, and social media deconstruction), and the suppression of Christian values in education and media. Many believers feel the weight of being pushed to the margins, as the world grows more intolerant of biblical truth. Yet, our calling remains the same—to stand firm in the faith and boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Our text this morning says, we should not be surprised when we face opposition for standing on God’s truth. Jesus Himself warned us, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” John 15:18. The growing hostility toward Christianity should not cause us to shrink back in fear but rather to press forward in faith, knowing that we follow in the footsteps of our Lord and Saviour. For as Paul writes, “For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life” 2 Corinthians 2:15-16. The gospel divides—it is life to those who believe, but to the world, it is a stench that brings conviction and rejection.

Yesterday Bible study unveiled something special to me. Reading about Paul’s scars in Corinthians, we discover that the Church in the West has made compromises that are hindering the spread of the gospel. In seeking to be accepted by the world, many have softened the message of truth, choosing cultural approval over biblical faithfulness. Churches have watered down the gospel, replacing the call to repentance with messages that merely entertain or comfort. Instead of proclaiming the full counsel of God, many have chosen silence on moral issues, fearing rejection. This compromise has led to confusion among believers and has weakened the Church’s witness. But Christ has not called us to conform to the world; He has called us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).

Now is the time for us to return to the unshakable foundation of God’s Word. The gospel is not to be hidden, for it is “the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes” Romans 1:16. The world may attempt to silence us, but we must declare the truth with boldness and love. We cannot afford to remain passive. The early Church faced severe persecution, yet they continued to preach Christ, even in the face of imprisonment and death. They did not compromise, and the gospel spread like fire. We, too, must take up our cross daily, deny ourselves, and follow Christ with unwavering commitment.

Let us not be ashamed of the gospel, nor be swayed by the pressures of society. Instead, let us put on the full armour of God, standing firm in faith, knowing that the victory is already won in Christ. The world may reject us, but our reward is in heaven. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” Matthew 5:10. Take heart, dear brothers and sisters, and be encouraged. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it. Let us go forth today with courage, steadfast in the faith, and unwavering in the mission of Christ. Amen.