Persecute Me?

For the past year and a quarter, the focus of our Sunday is not primarily on speaking on topics that everyone in the church knows all too well but rather we try to find ways to equip those in the congregation, those online and now those watching on Facebook Live to spread the news outside the four walls of the church. I just read a short story about a preacher who was not only willing to get egged for his beliefs but also put it all on the line when he was told not to preach in public for fear of incarceration. His response; “I have never been arrested for preaching the gospels”. A little later in his career, he went up against some rather nasty folk and the people told him he could be shot if he did not stop it. His response; “I have never been shot for preaching the gospels”.

Church! The gospels are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. The difference now as opposed to then is that the church today is a comfortable place to gather with a nice easy message to hear. Guess what, we are a persecuted church more today than ever. We have been lulled into a place of complacency. Can you preach the gospel on the street or in a public square? No, you need permits and permissions and good luck getting them. Can you pray in your classroom before the day starts or take time out throughout the day to pray? No, this could cause issues with those who do not want to hear you as it makes them uncomfortable. Can you write an article for your local newspaper that has a Christian message? Chances of that happening are very slim. Is your church included in the official directory for your town or county? If it is, awesome but many are not.

The persecuted church is the church forced into silence. The time has come to equip the people of the church to say no, we will not be silent. We have as much right to stand tall and speak the message. And when the world shouts us down, stand firm. John and Peter stood in front of the Sanhedrin and were told to be silent and not speak of Jesus Christ (Acts 4).

But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:19-20 NIV

I fear disappointing my Lord and Saviour more than I do upsetting a few people who don’t want to feel uncomfortable. Take courage and find strength in the Lord, He will show you the way! The Holy Spirit is with you!

Join us this Sunday as we speak of renewal. You can join us in person, online at www.mainavefellowship.blogspot.ca (online message tab) or on Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/todd.macdonald.3158  starting at 11:00 AM MST.

Shalom

Pastor Todd