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Persecution is not something to fear. Jesus said, "Rejoice." The early church saw it as a reason for rejoicing. Miraculously, God was actually using them to reflect His glory. Them!!
And reflect His love. For the commandments regarding our response to persecution are clear.
As much as possible live in peace with all men.
Pray for those who despitefully use you.
Always return good for evil. Always. Every time. Never repay evil with evil. Never. Not even once.
Rejoice in the Lord always.
Go into all the world and preach the Gospel, making disciples.
Fear not what man can do to you.
Love one another. It is by that love that the world will know that I am who I claim to be.
I sometimes wonder--heretically, of course--if the church's response today in America is not actually self-defense--idolatry. Love of our "rights," not love of Him and love of the lost. The only way to do the latter--love the right "things"--is by a life of obedience.
(See commandments above.)
As much as possible live in peace with all men.
Pray for those who despitefully use you.
Always return good for evil. Always. Every time. Never repay evil with evil. Never. Not even once.
Rejoice in the Lord always.
Go into all the world and preach the Gospel, making disciples.
Fear not what man can do to you.
Love one another. It is by that love that the world will know that I am who I claim to be.
I sometimes wonder--heretically, of course--if the church's response today in America is not actually self-defense--idolatry. Love of our "rights," not love of Him and love of the lost. The only way to do the latter--love the right "things"--is by a life of obedience.
(See commandments above.)
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