In church history, there arises from time to time, seasons of persecution. We’ll look this week at the very first season of church persecution that began in Jerusalem when the church was only weeks old.
Peter heals a lame man, a crowd gathers, he preaches a sermon, and before the teaching is finished, he and John are surrounded, arrested, and put into jail for the night.
The next day when they are questioned, Peter is no shrinking violet. He is brave, articulate, and a picture of His master. Peter, now full of the Holy Spirit, has learned to imitate Jesus.
It’s a magnificent scene and I can’t wait to look at it together.
The early days of the church required great courage. Having no idea what consequences they would face, Jesus’ earliest followers proclaimed the truth of the gospel and braced themselves for whatever would follow.
I think that we’re entering into another period in the history of the church where the true followers of Christ will be separated from those who follow in name only. What will separate the true from the false? The same thing that has always separated the two, real persecution.
If that is something that is concerning to you, no worries. This week, Peter will show us the blueprint of how we can successfully navigate persecution for Jesus’ sake.
And remember, persecution is a normal part of following Jesus. Remember His words from John 15:20,
20…If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you…
Let’s learn to be ready to face whatever might come our way in the way that God intends. We don’t have to guess how; He shows us the way.
Much love!
Wes LeFlore (918) 607-8489 or huskerwes1@gmail.com
