The Kingdom of Heaven: Demands Valor
Throughout history, Christ’s Church has faced fierce opposition. At first glance, this is very strange. The people of God are proclaimers of good news. We advance a spiritual kingdom, not a political one. We rely on the power of God’s Word, not the might of the sword. We pray for our enemies and bless those who persecute us. We may not always do all these things perfectly, but that is our goal. So why do Christians endure persecution? Mt. 10:24 The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master. Jesus did all these things perfectly and he was slandered, tortured, and executed. Even today, the children of God suffer as the Son of God did. At this moment, in this place, we have great freedoms, securities, and temporal peace. Yet this is not guaranteed forever and for all. Whether or not we enjoy this goodwill, Jesus says Mt. 10:31 Do not be afraid! You are precious in the eyes of your Lord. He will strengthen & ultimately rescue all those who rely upon him from the schemes and attacks of the wicked ones.
