And as they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came upon them greatly annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they arrested them and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. (Acts 4:1-3, ESV)

Acts Chapter 4 highlights the beginning of persecution of the Church – a topic that we do not see much in Western culture. After the disciples received the Holy Spirit in Acts 2, they were empowered to proclaim the gospel. This resulted in adding “three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41) and then “five thousand” (Acts 4:4) … There is little question that the temple leaders targeted Jesus because of his success reaching people, challenging their religious, cultural, and social norms. Now we see the same momentum of the gospel empowered by the Holy Spirit in the apostles’ ministry and the resistance that comes with it. Nearly all of the Twelve would eventually face martyrdom for their faith.  

Historically, Christianity has grown the greatest during times of persecution. Although we may not see it, the fact is that Christians across the world are still persecuted for their faith by groups and governments like those in the early church. Approximately 5,000 Christians were killed for their faith in the last year and statistics say that 1 in 7 Christians worldwide undergo persecution.

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One of the many promises that Jesus makes us here on Earth is persecution. In John 15:20-21 Jesus says, “Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me” (emphasis added).

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There is hope in the discomfort. Jesus says in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” James 1:2-3 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” Where there is discomfort, God provides comfort and then endurance. God uses these trials and tribulations to shape us more into the image of Christ. 

I do not know about you, but I do not have a natural inclination to invite these trials upon myself. Persecution looks quite different to different people. It can look like losing a job, finances, or relationship. What is real persecution though? Have you experienced persecution or made sacrifices for your faith? We all undergo hardships to grow personally, professionally, academically, and physically. Today I challenge you to think about what discomfort you are willing to endure to proclaim the gospel.

Father, you have promised that those who follow Jesus will be persecuted. We pray for your children worldwide who are suffering mistreatment, imprisonment, loss of possessions or threats of death for their faith. We pray that you deliver them from those trials. Give them and give us courage and steadfastness to proclaim the Gospel when we face the same. In Jesus’ name, Amen.