““Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:10 (ESV)
There has been a lot of people throwing around the term “persecuted” lately to describe the treatment of the modern Christian Church, even here in America. Is the American Church truly under persecution? When compared to other countries like India, China, Nepal, and so many others where believers are imprisoned, kept from their families, shunned from their communities, beaten, tortured, and even killed for their faith and boldness for sharing it, it is hard to ascribe the term “persecuted” to the treatment of Christians in America presently. However, I personally do not believe that we are far from it with the way that this country has been spiraling morally for the past few decades. As a society, we have deemed Christianity as “outdated” or even “cult-like”. May God have mercy on us! If we do not remain steadfast and bold in our faith and in protecting our God-given and constitutionally protected right to worship God and declare Him to others, we will soon be listed as a country where persecution is rampant.
Take heart, though, my brothers and sisters. Our Lord and Savior Himself declared: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Trust that God will be with you as you proclaim His name, and even if you suffer persecution it will be counted as a blessing for you will inherit the Kingdom of Heaven!
Jessica Ford
Communications Director
ALIVE Ministries USA