Persecution
I posted this once before (before the server barfed, that is), and actually wrote it much longer before then. I don’t think it deserves to be forever stuck with my drafts, so here it is.
I’m not of the world. I have no reason to conform to it or it’s doctrines. This, of course, may lead to persecution. But even with that added on, I won’t back down.
Remember the word that I said to you: “A servant is not greater than his lord.” If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do to you for my name’s sake, because they don’t know him who sent me. – John 15:20-21 (WEB)
Persecution is strong in other nations such as Tibet or Iraq, but where is there persecution here in America or Europe? Persecution isn’t always in the form of physical beatings or acts. Persecution can be in the form of false accusations or other verbal attack.
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are you when people reproach you, persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you.