Persecuted for being a Christian
"So don’t be surprised, dear brothers and sisters, if the world hates you." – 1 John 3:13 (NLT)
“Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. If you are insulted because you bear the name of Christ, you will be blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you.” – 1 Peter 4:12-14 (NLT)
Jesus' candid statements prepare us for the reality that as believers, we will face opposition. We should expect to share in Christ's suffering and be persecuted for the sake of His name.
Around the world, over 260 million Christians face persecution because they bear the name of Christ. That’s 1 in 8 Christians worldwide. They share in His sufferings because they live in places where social and cultural pressure to follow other religions is significant, where government restrictions and bias against His followers exists, and where violence against the Christian faith is common. Christians remain the most persecuted group of people in the world today. In Canada, we enjoy religious liberty, albeit with growing signs of discrimination in some contexts. While advocating for religious freedom globally we are not surprised by discrimination, persecution or even martyrdom; Jesus told us to expect it.
What is amazing is the incredible growth of the church in spite of oppression, and the willingness and courage of many believers who risk their lives to share the message of hope with their friends, families and neighbours. The kingdom is advancing!
This past Sunday, was the International Day of Prayer for The Persecuted Church. We lead our PPT congregation in corporate prayer and declared this month’s day of fasting and prayer would be dedicated to praying for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being persecuted around the world for their faith in Jesus Christ. So we invite you to join us in setting this day apart for that purpose.
We have included links below for you to check out more resources that will further educate you concerning our friends and fellow believers who are suffering as Christ suffered. We are approaching Remembrance Day (Nov 11) once again. It’s a time when we pause in a moment of silence to honor and remember the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace. In the spirit of that day, let’s pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ who are spiritual warriors serving Jesus Christ and His kingdom purposes in very difficult circumstances. As we do, we truly embody Paul’s words, “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:26-2.
Visit these websites for more information:
https://paoc.org/family/annual-initiatives/the-persecuted-church
https://idop.ca
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Wednesday, November 4, 2020
Pastor’s Chat with Pastor Barry at 8:00 pm
ppt.church/live
OR
Dial: 647-977-2648 (Canada) / 202-602-1295 (USA)
Code: 827-220-552#