30th September, 2016.
Scripture Reading: Mat. 5: 10-12, 1 Cor.12:26, Psalm 82:3.
Memory verse for the week: Isaiah 53:5
“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.” (NKJV)
Christian persecution is hostility experienced from the world as a result of one’s identification as a Christian. It includes verbal harassment, hostile attitudes, beatings, confinement, rape, and imprisonment; discrimination in education & employment, and even death on a daily basis.
Open Doors, a US based ministry devoted to serving persecuted Christians says each month 322 Christians are killed for their faith, 214 churches & Christian properties are destroyed, and 772 forms of violence such as beatings, arrest & forced marriages are committed against Christians. Also, at least 100 million Christians are being persecuted for their faith worldwide especially in Middle Eastern countries such as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Why are Christians being persecuted? Authorithorian government e.g. in North Korea & other communist countries in order to control political and civic life. Also, hatred towards minority religious groups from the society e.g in Niger, where 98% are Muslims. Again, lack of basic human rights e.g. in Eritrea. There are violations of the freedom of expressions, religious belief and movement.
What can we do as Christians? Heb. 13:3, “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them – those who are mistreated – since you yourselves are in the body also.” We Give, Groan and/or Go! We can Give in cash and kind as relief materials, Groan ( Intercede) for them and/or Go there to encourage the work the missionaries are doing.
ACTION WORD: I CHOOSE TO STAND FOR JESUS, COME WHAT MAY!
PRAYER POINT:
