The Persecuted Church: Standing Strong Amidst Storm

Good morning, friends.

I want to talk to you today about a topic that may seem uncomfortable or even frightening, but it’s a reality that we, as Christians, must face: Christian persecution. And while we may think persecution is something that happens in distant lands or in times past, it’s becoming more of a present-day reality, even in countries that have historically prided themselves on freedom of speech and religion.

Take Canada, for example. You might have heard about Bill C-367, which has already passed into law. This bill amends the Criminal Code of Canada, and it is a direct attack on the right to publicly express religious beliefs. Under this new law, it is now illegal to publicly express or even attempt to defend an opinion based on a Christian religious belief. It criminalizes anything that could be seen as promoting “hatred” or “antisemitism” through religious discourse—meaning, if you quote the Bible, preach, or even pray publicly, you could be deemed guilty of a criminal offense. Yes, criminalized for doing what we’ve always been called to do: speak the truth of God’s Word.

Now, this may sound shocking. It might feel like the kind of thing you would read in a dystopian novel, not the morning news. But I’m here to tell you, church, that this is happening, and it’s a clear sign of the times we are living in.

1. Persecution is Here

In Matthew 24:9, Jesus tells us, "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name's sake." Persecution for following Christ was prophesied in Scripture, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that we are seeing it unfold before our eyes.

Bill C-367 is not an isolated incident. We are seeing Christianity—the very faith that founded many Western societies—become increasingly vilified and silenced. The government of Canada has decided that speaking publicly about your faith is no longer acceptable if it offends someone. As Trudeau pushes his Willingness to Overlook Known Evil, WOKE Ideology Satanic and Pedophilic Agenda - This is no longer about freedom of religion; it’s about freedom from Christ. And it’s happening fast.

What Does the Bible Say About Persecution?

As disturbing as this may sound, we shouldn’t be surprised. The Bible warns us that persecution is inevitable for those who follow Jesus. In John 15:18-19, Jesus says,

"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you."

Persecution isn’t a sign that God has abandoned us; it’s a sign that we are living for Him and not the world. Jesus told us to expect it. It’s part of our calling to follow Him. In 2 Timothy 3:12, Paul reminds us, "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

3. Standing Strong in Faith

So, what do we do when persecution comes? We stand strong. We don’t shrink back. We don’t hide. We don’t cower in fear. We stand firm in our faith because we know that persecution is temporary, but the reward of standing for Christ is eternal.

Revelation 2:10 says,

"Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life."

The Bible makes it clear: remaining faithful to Christ, even under persecution, leads to the crown of life—eternal life with Jesus. And as the world grows darker, we are called to shine brighter. As society tells us to be silent, we are called to speak louder, with love, with truth, and with grace.

Comfort in the End Times

Let’s not forget, church, that we are living in the end times. Jesus told us that the birth pains of the end times would include wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes, and famine. And while we may look around and see the chaos, the discomfort, and the persecution, we can take heart in knowing that Jesus is coming soon.

In Matthew 24:8, Jesus referred to these things as "the beginning of birth pains." Birth pains are painful, but they are also signs that something new and beautiful is coming. And what is coming? The return of Jesus Christ—the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

So while we may face opposition, imprisonment, or even death, we can find comfort in the fact that Jesus is returning to make all things right. And in the end, we will receive our eternal reward for standing firm in faith.

What Should We Do Now?

So what do we do as we face this growing opposition?

First, we stand strong in our faith. We cannot be intimidated by the world. We must boldly proclaim the gospel, speak the truth, and love others as Christ has loved us.

Second, we pray. We pray for the strength to endure. We pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who are already facing this kind of persecution. We pray for those in power, that God would move in their hearts and bring about righteousness.

Third, we live out our faith. We don’t wait for persecution to come; we live as Christians every day, showing the world that we are unashamed of the gospel.

Hope in Christ’s Return

Lastly, remember that Jesus is coming back. We may suffer for a little while, but our suffering is temporary. We will be with Jesus forever, and that is worth any price we have to pay here on earth. As we face trials, let us take comfort in the promise of 2 Timothy 4:7-8, where Paul says,

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."

Closing Prayer

Father, we come before You today with hearts that are both heavy and hopeful. We are heavy-hearted because we see the persecution of Your people increasing, but we are hopeful because we know that Your promises are true. Help us to stand firm in our faith, to boldly proclaim the gospel, and to endure whatever trials come our way. We know that our reward is in You, and that You are coming soon to make all things new. We thank You for Your strength, Your grace, and Your faithfulness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Church, let’s be bold. Let’s be unashamed. The crown of life is worth it. Stay faithful, stay strong, and look up—our redemption is near.