November 4, 2018

1 Peter 4:12-16, 19 New International Version (NIV)

Suffering for Being a Christian

12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

19 So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

November 4th was the International Day of Prayer For The Persecuted Church.  As we remember those who are suffering for the name of Christ, let us also remember what God’s word says about persecution

1.    Expect Persecution

2.    Endure Persecution

3.    Rejoice in Persecution

4.    Pray for Those Persecuted