The dictionary defines “˜persecute”™: 1. To oppress or harass with ill-treatment.

2. To annoy persistently; bother.

Jesus spoke of persecution in relation to being a follower of Him.

(NASB) John 15:20 “Remember the word that I said to you, “˜A slave is not greater than his master.”™ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.”

Don”™t Be Surprised”¦

In 2 Timothy 3:12, Paul wrote to Timothy: “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (NIV)

Don”™t Be Surprised”¦

There is persecution. Jesus warned His followers they would be persecuted because of their faith and belief in Him.

(This persecution is not be confused with political or other types of persecution.)

Don”™t Be Surprised”¦

(NASB) Matthew 5:11-12 “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.”

12 “˜Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

(Underlining added)

In the book of Hebrews chapter 11 is a list of some whose faith in the living God were persecuted. They are the great cloud of witnesses who are undergoing persecution today ““ throughout the world ““ because of faith in Christ.

(NIV) Hebrews 12:1 “THEREFORE, SINCE we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

What is hindering you today from running the course God has marked out for you?

What is entangling you and causing you to stumble?

(NIV) Hebrews 11:1-2 “NOW FAITH is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Don”™t Be Surprised”¦