When Being A Christian Can Be Extremely Dangerous
Posted: Sunday, October 09, 2011
by Joel Kontinen
http://joelkontinen.blogspot.com/
While we might often associate Christianity with images of green pastures and still waters, it can be extremely hazardous to be a follower of Jesus Christ in Muslim or communist countries.
Jesus’ way led to the cross. About 200 million Christians are discovering that they are not above their Master but have to walk through the shadow of if not death then at least persecution. For them, the apostle Paul’s words “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22, NKJV) are real.
Asia Bibi is a Pakistani Christian lady who is facing the death sentence. The outspoken testimony of this young wife and mother constitutes her “crime”. Her Muslim neighbours became furious when she said, “Our Christ sacrificed His life on the cross for our sins. ... Our Christ is alive.”
Youssef Nadarkhani, a 33-year-old Iranian house church pastor, has likewise been sentenced to death for denying Islam. All he wanted to do was to teach his flock and his little children that the Bible is God’s Word. However, in Iran that obviously is a crime.
Millions of persecuted Christians need our prayers and our support. You can sign petitions and learn more about them by visiting the websites of organisations such as The Voice of the Martyrs (www.persecution.com).
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Top-level comments on this article: (4 total)Dangerous, for sure. but satisfyingThanks. I do agree.
Thank you for this reminder to pray. Christians in the West have it easy in terms of persecution. The truth hurts, and no where is it more evident than in places where Christians are killed for the testimony and dedication to Jesus. And yet here in America, some Christians turn away from God simply because their friends won't hang with them any more. We have much to learn from our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. Thank you again!Thanks Teresa. Yes, I feel it is important not to forget those who have to suffer for their faith.
Great reminder - I just spent a weekend with old co-workers in a world wide ministry which has nationals taking the gospel home to home - the born again salvation message. There is much persecution all over the world and this is a much needed reminder to pray and pray and pray for those who risk their lives daily to tell others about our Lord Jesus Christ!Thanks Marijo. Yes, we shouldn't forget those who risk their lives to follow Jesus.
We are seeing more and more persecution in America, and the more we tolerate the hatred, the sooner we are the country where Christians are killed for their beliefs.It might eventually lead to that.
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