Written by David Maddox
One of Satan’s great deceptions is that we Christians will be loved by our culture and the people who need, but do not yet know Jesus. We expect encouragement and support, but as is evident in today’s America if you raise the name of Jesus – want to pray in that name – speak outside of a church building about Jesus – or “evil” of all “evils” insist that His Word is true and sin is conduct He describes as sin – or boldly proclaim the Gospel message that people need to be saved and that salvation exists only in Jesus (Acts 4:12) you are immediately “nuked” and labeled as one who hates. Today’s Believers for some reason ignore Jesus’ warning that, “You will be hated by all for My name’s sake” (Luke 21:17). Or Paul’s candid warning in his last letter written shortly before his execution – “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” (2 Timothy 3:12-13). Satan’s targets for such persecution are clearly identified in Revelation where it is revealed, “Then the dragon (Satan) became furious . . . and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus” (Revelation 12:17). Finally, remember what Jesus said about His return. The world is not going to rejoice at His coming – no rather Jesus said that at the sign of His coming “all tribes of the earth will mourn” (Matthew 24:30). They mourn while Believers rejoice for their opposition and unbelief will now be judged by the holy and righteous One whom they have rejected. If you are not being in some way persecuted or opposed for your faith then you have not been found worthy (Acts 5:41) or you are not one “who keeps the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.” That hard reality is the truth. If you are walking to live in peace and avoid conflict caused by identity with Jesus and the truth of His Word then you are living in rebellion – denying Christ.