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Jesus sent the twelve disciples to do the work of preaching the gospel, healing the sick, and casting out demons (ref. Matt. 10:1). He warned them that He was sending them out as sheep in the midst of wolves. When we follow Jesus like them, we will meet with opposition, persecution and danger. As such, we are to be as wise as serpents and harmless as doves and not be devoured by the “wolves” in the world. We must be vigilant and self-controlled because the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour (ref. 1 Pet. 5:8). Troubles and persecutions will includes arrests, physical and mental abuse, unjust trials, incarceration, betrayals by family members, general hatred and hostility from people of the world (ref. Matt. 10:17-22). The apostles were imprisoned after they preached the gospel and healed the sick (ref. Acts 5:18). The angel of the Lord miraculously released them so that they openly preach Christ, “the words of this Life” in the Temple. They were subsequently arrested, beaten and then released. (ref. Acts 5:19-20, 40, 41). They rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name.
Expect persecution and opposition when we share about Jesus. A disciple is not above his teacher. The religious rulers of Jesus’ day persecuted Him and unbelievers will persecute His followers (ref. Jn. 15:20). “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim 3:12). However, Jesus tells us not to fear persecution. The Holy Spirit will give us the words to say to the opposition in our time of need. We are not to fear those who can only take away our physical lives; we are to fear God who is able to destroy both body and soul in hell (ref. Matt.10:28).
Jesus promises that those who endures to the end will be saved (ref. Matt 10:22). If we are not facing persecution for telling people of Jesus, it is likely that we have not testified of Jesus to the world. When the devil sees that we are sober and watchful, standing on God’s promises and ready to fight the good fight of the faith he trembles. When we seriously share Jesus with others, the evil one will put obstacles, threats and dangers to deceive, distract and demolish us. When we take up our cross daily and follow Jesus, we must be prepared to take the journey with Jesus to the end – even to the extent of losing our lives for Him and His glory.
