If you haven't read part 1 of this series, I encourage you to do so.
I want to make a few things clear. I realize and understand that by writing this blog, I will likely encounter persecution and may even lose friends. However, as the Apostle Paul stated, "all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12. I hear someone gasping. When you said the 'sinners prayer' to accept Jesus, did you understand that you would suffer persecution? Perhaps that is not what you thought you signed up for. Maybe you were told that accepting Jesus as your Saviour you would have a "happy ever after ending". Maybe you thought God would give you a Rolls Royce and a condo in the Florida Keys?
Let's take a look at some of the disciples of Jesus Christ. Peter, John and some of the other Apostles were beaten and jailed for spreading the Gospel. (Acts 4). Afterwards, they prayed that God would grant them even more boldness to preach the Gospel of Christ. This is a far cry from the gospel preached today that you can accept Christ today and tomorrow have a glorious life without pain.
History tells us that Peter was crucified by the Emperor Nero. Tradition says that he was crucified upside down as he did not feel worthy to die in the same manner as Jesus Christ. James was put to death by Herod Agrippa. Paul also died as a martyr.
If you think that martyrs only existed in Bible times, you should visit the Voice of the Martyrs website. http://www.persecution.com/public/newsroom.aspx Christians all over the world are being martyred today.
I believe that persecution is coming to the USA. It's time to make sure you are right with God. The God of Abraham, Jacob and Isaac.
Forgetting: The idea that my life will always be a bowl of cherries.
Remembering: Jesus is the reason for life. I may end up a martyr for Christ. I must prepare for the day I meet my Saviour face to face.
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