Persecution Flashcards
What does persecution mean?
Persecution means hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of prejudice against race, or political or religious beliefs.
How has persecution affected Christians historically?
Persecution has always happened to Christians. Jesus said that his followers would be persecuted (John 15:18-19) and St. Paul writes about it in his letters to the Early Church (2 Timothy 3:12).
What did Jesus encourage his followers to do in response to persecution?
Jesus encouraged his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecuted them.
What does Matthew 5:10-12 say about persecution?
Matthew 5:10-12 says, ‘blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad because great is your reward in heaven.’
What does the International Society for Human Rights claim about religious persecution?
The International Society for Human Rights claims that 80% of all religious persecution is directed at Christians.
What forms can persecution take?
Persecution can range from being forced to pay higher taxes, preventing Christians from getting good jobs or building churches, to attacks on homes, churches, and even murder.
Can persecution have a positive effect on faith?
Persecution can have a positive effect; it can help to develop and strengthen faith. Christians believe they are sharing in Christ’s sufferings, and often the church grows during times of persecution.
What does Jesus say about responding to evil?
In response to persecution, Jesus tells his followers to ‘turn the other cheek’ (Matt 5:39) and in Romans 12:21, ‘do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.’
How does Paul describe the church in relation to suffering?
In Corinthians, Paul likens the church to a body: ‘if one part suffers, every part suffers with it.’
What did Brother Andrew do during the Communist persecutions in Eastern Europe?
During the Communist persecutions in Eastern Europe, Brother Andrew (founder of Open Doors) smuggled Bibles to Christians there.
What is Open Doors and what does it do?
Open Doors is an organization that supports persecuted Christians in several ways: it provides theological training for pastors/leaders; literacy and vocational training for women; trauma counseling; practical support for refugees; public campaigns for justice and religious freedom; delivers Bibles and radio broadcasts into countries where it is illegal to be a Christian; raises awareness and financial/prayer support in churches.
