This sermon emphasizes the contrast between the comfort and ease of modern Christianity and the sacrificial dedication of early believers, challenging listeners to consider their commitment to Christ in the face of potential persecution. It highlights the need to love Jesus personally rather than just adhere to a creed, and to be willing to endure affliction and suffering for the sake of following Him faithfully.

This sermon emphasizes the importance of love, compassion, and faith in the face of persecution, particularly focusing on the struggles of persecuted Christians in various countries. It highlights the need for support, prayer, and understanding for those facing persecution, especially in communist and Muslim nations. The message encourages believers to show love, strength, and courage in the midst of adversity, following the example of persecuted Christians who demonstrate unwavering faith and love even in the most challenging circumstances.

This sermon reflects on the persecution faced by men and women of God throughout history, emphasizing the importance of not judging movements or individuals but seeking to glorify God. It delves into historical events where Anabaptists were hunted and killed, highlighting the impact of conscience and divine authority in such situations. The message urges listeners to examine their hearts, avoid carnal behaviors, and strive to be filled with the presence of Jesus Christ.

In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of love and relationship in serving one another. The goal is to teach the audience how to apply these principles in their camp ministry. The speaker also encourages evangelism through various methods such as open-air campaigns, evangelizing in homes, and even using vehicles as opportunities for sharing the gospel. The sermon emphasizes the need to enroll in God's army and be obedient to His commands, comparing Christians to soldiers under the leadership of Christ. The speaker references Bible verses, particularly Ephesians 6:10 and 2 Timothy 2, to support these teachings.

John Gill emphasizes the significance of suffering as a Christian, encouraging believers not to feel ashamed of their faith or the trials they face for it. He highlights that the name 'Christian' is a badge of honor, first given to the disciples, and urges Christians to endure suffering with the same resolve as Christ, who bore the cross. Gill reminds the congregation that suffering for Christ is a gift and an opportunity to glorify God, urging them to embrace their trials joyfully and patiently.

J.B. Galloway preaches about the period following the days of the apostles, focusing on the writings of the Apostolic Fathers like Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Polycarp. These early Christian writers served as a bridge between the apostolic era and the second century, emphasizing unity, holiness, and martyrdom. Clement of Rome's epistle to the Corinthians urges for holiness and unity, while Ignatius of Antioch's letters highlight sanctification, charity, and Christian perfection. Polycarp, a disciple of Saint John, exemplified unwavering faith and courage in martyrdom, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in the face of persecution.

James Smith preaches about the call to be a disciple of Jesus, emphasizing the infinite wisdom, omnipotent power, universal authority, unbounded beneficence, and gentle disposition of Jesus. He challenges the reader to surrender all to Jesus, be willing to suffer and die for Him, and obey His commands out of love, respect, and faith. A true disciple is teachable, loves the Master above all, and finds true happiness in following Jesus, even in the midst of afflictions. Smith urges the listener to forsake worldly pleasures, unite with fellow disciples, and publicly profess faith in Jesus, promising that His disciples are honorable, safe, and eternally blessed.

Glendon Fox delves into the historical account of the Anabaptist movement in Switzerland, focusing on the courageous stand of leaders like Zwingli and Michael Sattler against the corrupt practices of the Roman Catholic Church. The sermon highlights the persecution faced by those who sought to reform the church according to the teachings of the Bible, leading to a revival that spread rapidly despite fierce opposition. The narrative explores the sacrificial faith of believers who were willing to face imprisonment, torture, and death for their convictions, ultimately sparking a movement that emphasized true repentance, baptism, and obedience to the Word of God.

Mike Atnip preaches about the life and methods of a 7/20 Missionary, exemplified by Ambrosius Spittelmayr, who challenged individuals in 16th-century Germany with thought-provoking questions about the essence of the gospel, true discipleship, and relationships with fellow believers. Ambrosius emphasized that being a disciple of Jesus involved more than just receiving forgiveness but required a commitment to imitate Christ, live out His teachings, and make the kingdom of God a reality on earth through self-denial and righteous living. As a 7/20 missionary, Ambrosius spent seven weeks evangelizing and asking probing questions, followed by 20 weeks in jail for his faith, ultimately facing martyrdom for his unwavering commitment to Christ.

Oswald Chambers preaches about the shame of the Gospel, highlighting how the wisdom of God may seem foolish to the world, but ultimately surpasses human understanding. He emphasizes that standing true to faith in God may lead to appearing foolish among those who prioritize worldly wisdom and cunning. Chambers challenges believers to be willing to endure suffering and appear foolish for the sake of Christ, even in the face of opposition and persecution.

Ignatius of Antioch passionately expresses his willingness to endure persecution and suffering for the sake of his faith in Jesus Christ. He acknowledges the challenges he faces, including being bound by soldiers and facing wild beasts, but remains steadfast in his commitment to follow Christ, even if it means enduring extreme hardships and martyrdom. Ignatius desires to be consumed by the wild beasts as a sacrifice for his faith, demonstrating his unwavering devotion to Jesus above all else.

St. Polycarp of Smyrna encourages believers to persevere in hope and righteousness through Jesus Christ, who bore our sins and endured all things for us. He urges followers to imitate Christ's patience and glorify Him even in suffering for His name's sake, as Christ set the ultimate example for us to follow.

St. Polycarp of Smyrna writes to various churches about the martyrdoms that have taken place, focusing on the example of the blessed Polycarp who endured persecution and martyrdom to inspire others to imitate his steadfast love and faith. The martyrs displayed incredible bravery and endurance, despising the tortures of the world for the promise of eternal rewards from Christ. Despite facing fearful punishments and temptations to deny their faith, they remained faithful, showing that God prevailed against all trials and tribulations.

The preacher in 'Martyrs of the Catacombs' tells the story of Marcellus, a Roman soldier tasked with hunting down Christians in the Catacombs. Despite his initial doubts and misconceptions about Christians, Marcellus begins to question the unjust persecution of these peaceful believers after witnessing their courage and devotion in the face of death. As Marcellus grapples with his duty and moral convictions, he is confronted with the true essence of Christianity - love, sacrifice, and unwavering faith in the face of persecution.

In the sermon 'Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution,' the preacher recounts the story of Marcellus, a young soldier who chooses to become a Christian despite facing persecution and consequences. Marcellus's unwavering faith in God leads him to make a bold decision to stand with the Christians, even at the cost of his own life and worldly honor. Despite the warnings and pleas of his friend Lucullus, Marcellus remains steadfast in his faith, ultimately choosing to follow Christ over the expectations of society and the Roman government.

In the sermon by Martyrs of the Catacombs, a young boy named Pollio bravely faces persecution and death for his Christian faith, unwavering in his commitment despite offers of wealth, power, and life if he renounces his beliefs. Pollio's steadfastness in the face of imminent death showcases the strength and conviction that true faith can provide, even in the most dire circumstances.

Favell Lee Mortimer emphasizes the importance of resisting temptations and doing the will of God, using examples of rulers who loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. Despite the trials and fears faced by these rulers, the consequences of denying Christ are far greater in eternity. True believers may be tempted but will not continue in sin, as seen in Peter's repentance. Mortimer challenges listeners to confess Christ in the face of opposition, showing love for the Lord above worldly admiration.

Ralph Sutera preaches on the true essence of being a Christian, emphasizing the need to understand the biblical definition of a Christian by examining the three instances the word 'Christian' is used in the Bible. He highlights the importance of making a willful choice to have fellowship with God, dealing with sins that break fellowship, and surrendering the self-life to live a holy life before God. Sutera challenges believers to accept the cross, be committed to God, and allow the Holy Spirit to equip them for the spiritual battle, emphasizing the need for a changed life, a commitment to God, and a lifestyle of holiness.

Ian Paisley preaches with fervor and boldness, echoing the spirit of reformers like Luther and Knox. He emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the truth, even if it means facing opposition and persecution. Paisley draws parallels between the struggles of the reformers against the Papacy and the challenges faced by believers in upholding biblical principles in the face of adversity. Through his passionate delivery, he encourages unwavering faith and dedication to God's Word, regardless of the cost.

Ed Wrather reflects on the uniqueness of names and shares humorous encounters of meeting individuals with the same name as him. He draws a parallel to the name 'Christian' and encourages believers to embrace and glorify God in carrying this name with honor, as a good name is more desirable than riches. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the significance of our names and the higher name we receive when accepting Christ.

John Bjorlie preaches about the remarkable missionary journeys and ministry of E. H. Broadbent, a humble and fearless ambassador for Christ who traveled extensively throughout Europe, Russia, and beyond, spreading the gospel in multiple languages and facing various challenges and persecutions. Broadbent's dedication to teaching New Testament doctrine and preparing believers for persecution, his unwavering faith in the midst of trials, and his commitment to serving others selflessly for the sake of Christ are highlighted in his impactful life story.

Samuel Rutherford, in a letter to a noble lady, expresses his gratitude for the honor of suffering for King Jesus and His kingdom, despite facing deprivation and confinement. He finds solace in the cross of Christ, experiencing sweet refreshments, joy, and undoubted hope in the midst of trials. Rutherford acknowledges his shortcomings in ministry but remains steadfast in his faith, anticipating God's favor even in a strange land. He surrenders fully to Jesus, welcoming the cross and expressing deep love for the Lord, while also praying for his flock and those who support him.

Samuel Rutherford writes to a lady, sharing his experiences of being in Aberdeen and the persecution he faces for his faith in Christ. He boldly proclaims Christ's goodness to his soul despite facing adversity and opposition. Rutherford encourages the lady to hold firm to her faith, reminding her that Christ's love surpasses any worldly troubles or challenges. Despite being silenced from preaching, he finds solace in his suffering, believing that his silence may preach more than his words ever could. Rutherford humbly acknowledges his weakness in comparison to God's greatness, committing to hold his peace and trust in the Lord's plan.

Samuel Rutherford, in a letter to a friend, reflects on his suffering for the truth and his unwavering commitment to serving God, even in the face of persecution and loss. He expresses his deep longing to be fully devoted to Christ, despite feeling inadequate and sinful. Rutherford finds comfort in the midst of his trials, recognizing that Christ is refining his love and breaking down his idols. He acknowledges his struggles with guilt, the state of the church, and his yearning for Christ's glory to be revealed. Despite feeling abandoned at times, Rutherford's faith remains steadfast, desiring to love Christ above all else.

John Newton preaches about the infinite compassion and power of God in the midst of trials, emphasizing that God afflicts not for His pleasure but for our profit, to make us partakers of His holiness. He encourages believers to trust in God's grace and providence, even when facing challenges, as God appoints and directs their paths with precision and provides grace and strength when needed. Newton reminds listeners that suffering for the sake of Christ glorifies Him, manifests His power in believers, and serves as a testimony to the world and angels of the reality of their faith.