Persecution

There are promises in the word of God that don’t seem much like promises to some folks. For instance, this one: “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” That means all whose purpose of heart it is to live godly lives in this present world shall (certainly) suffer persecution, as did their Lord. Maybe we contemplate such verses and think they should say something different: perhaps something like, “And all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall be appreciated for their goodness and rewarded with approval, good health and fortune.” There is Paul’s statement to the Philippians that declares, “For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.” Perhaps we would be more comfortable if that were to read, “For unto you it is given…not only to believe on him, but also to be blessed with health, wealth and prosperity.” But it doesn’t say that; it says what it says.

--Dick York (Missionary, conference speaker, missionary trainer, author)