Persecution
In the biblical context, persecution refers to the systematic mistreatment or oppression of individuals or groups, often for their beliefs or faith. It is prominently discussed in the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the experiences of the early Christians. For instance, Jesus warned His followers about the inevitability of persecution in John 15:20, stating, "If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you." This indicates that suffering and persecution are intrinsic to the Christian experience, as believers may face hostility for their allegiance to Christ and His teachings.Persecution is also described as a source of spiritual growth and a means of refining one's faith. In Romans 5:3-5, Paul encourages believers to rejoice in their suffering, as it produces perseverance, character, and hope. Furthermore, the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:10-12 bless those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, promising them the Kingdom of Heaven. Overall, biblical persecution serves as both a reality for believers and a call to steadfastness and faithfulness amidst trials, reinforcing the notion that suffering for one's faith can lead to greater spiritual maturity and a deeper connection with God.
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The Approaching Wave of Persecution
By Denny Kenaston7.2K1:28:15PersecutionMRK 10:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preparing for hard times and the return of the Lord. He urges listeners to teach their children the Bible and equip them for the challenges they will face. The speaker also highlights the presence of persecution and fire in America and encourages believers to be aware of it and seek wisdom to navigate through it. The sermon concludes with a call to be prepared and alert, comparing it to being aware of an approaching wave and taking necessary precautions.
Power in Persecution
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones4.5K47:01PersecutionACT 4:23In this sermon, the speaker addresses a desperate situation that the church is facing. He emphasizes that the church should not have rushed into the situation but should have used diplomacy and gradually introduced their message. The speaker contrasts the church's approach with the psychology system, highlighting the church's lack of fear and reliance on God's power. He encourages the church not to be afraid of those who oppose them, as God has the ability to shake anything that stands against Him.
The Secret Door
By Corrie Ten Boom4.0K30:24PersecutionDEU 31:6PSA 23:1MAT 5:44MAT 6:33JHN 14:2JHN 20:21ROM 8:14In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a boy named Martin who had a life-changing encounter with a lady who saved his life and taught him how to invite Jesus into his heart. This encounter led Martin to have a genuine transformation and a burden for souls. The speaker also shares a dangerous situation where they had to save a baby and how God gave them the strength and courage to do it. They also describe a moment in a concentration camp where they boldly proclaimed Jesus as the victor, despite the risk of being killed. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the power of having Jesus in one's heart and the courage that comes from trusting in Him.
Persecution, Affliction, and Tribulation
By Keith Daniel3.6K1:28:15PersecutionDAN 12:1MAT 24:21ACT 14:22ACT 16:33ROM 12:12In this sermon, the speaker expresses gratitude for the opportunity to travel and preach across America. He acknowledges the support and organization of Denny, Jackie, Hannah, and Esther. The speaker emphasizes the importance of trust and love from the audience and prays for their concentration during the sermon. He also mentions his disapproval of churches that sing modern hymns. The sermon references Bible verses from 1 Peter and Job, highlighting the theme of suffering and the need to resist the devil. The speaker shares stories of individuals who have lost everything but still maintained their faith in God.
Persecution and the Underground House Churches in Iran
By Edgar Reich2.1K39:09PersecutionMAT 10:39MAT 24:9MAT 28:19ACT 4:29The video discusses the testimony of a family in Iran who watched the Gospel TV broadcast on an illegal satellite station and prayed together to confess their faith in Jesus Christ. It highlights the persecution and challenges faced by Christians in Iran, where the government is committed to Islam's quest for world dominion. Despite the risks, believers in the underground church boldly share their faith with others, even in public places like buses, taxis, and shops. The video also shares an example of a believer who obeyed the Holy Spirit's leading to give a New Testament to a man he met at a traffic light, leading to the man's conversion to Christianity.
The Godly People Will Be Persecuted
By Zac Poonen2.0K58:02Persecution2TI 3:12HEB 4:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a godly life and standing firm in God's word. He shares his personal experience of facing opposition for his faith and considers it an honor to be persecuted for standing up for God. The speaker also highlights the significance of being obedient to God's commands, comparing it to following orders in the military. He encourages listeners to prioritize their spiritual growth and not to compromise their beliefs for worldly gain.
Preparing for Persecution
By Don Currin2.0K56:56Persecution1PE 4:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the presence of Christ in the midst of suffering. He shares a story from Francis Chan's book, Crazy Love, about South Koreans who went to minister in Afghanistan and were taken captive by the Taliban. Despite the threat of death, these believers chose to stay and suffer for the cause of Christ, experiencing His tangible presence. The preacher emphasizes that persecution is inevitable for the church and encourages believers to rejoice and glorify God in the midst of suffering, knowing that His glory will be revealed.
(Revelation) God Allowing Persecution on Earth
By Willie Mullan1.7K1:09:54PersecutionREV 7:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Revelation chapter 7. He explains that this chapter is meant to explain certain things to the listeners. The preacher mentions that the four angels standing on the four corners of the earth holding the four winds of the earth are symbolic figures. He states that these winds represent God's coming judgment on the entire earth. The preacher also discusses the sealing of the 144,000 servants of God from the tribes of Israel, emphasizing that this is a literal number and not to be spiritualized.
How to Handle Persecution
By Danny Bond1.6K45:52PersecutionLUK 14:14LUK 15:2ACT 4:14ACT 4:37In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Acts 4:14-22 and discusses how the early church faced persecution for their faith. He emphasizes the importance of not watering down the gospel to make the church popular, as the church was never meant to be popular. The preacher highlights the example of Peter, who was filled with the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaimed the truth, even in the face of opposition from religious leaders. He encourages believers to be compliant, filled with the Spirit, and aggressive in seizing opportunities to share the gospel, just like the early church did.
Courage in Christian Ministry
By Josef Tson1.4K1:28:51PersecutionNEH 8:10JHN 15:111TH 1:61PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being interrogated and beaten by a general in Romania. Despite the physical abuse, he learns to rely on the Holy Spirit to speak through him during these interrogations. The speaker also discusses the connection between liberal theology and communism, and his mission to draw people back to the scriptures. After the revolution in Romania, the speaker gives away all his books as proof of his faith, and experiences a profound transformation when he realizes the joy and glory of the Lord. This transformation leads to a period of fruitful ministry, where he baptizes 850 new converts in just four years.
Persecution for Righteousness
By Dwight Pentecost1.3K34:00PersecutionMAT 5:10JHN 15:18JHN 16:71PE 1:31PE 1:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on John chapter 15, specifically verse 18, where Jesus warns his disciples that the world will hate them because they are not of the world. The preacher explains that when a person becomes a believer and leaves behind their old ways, the world cannot understand or accept this transformation. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin through believers who live according to the teachings of Jesus, which challenges the world's religion, morals, and ethics. The preacher emphasizes that believers who choose to follow Christ are reproving and rebuking the world by showing that they have found something better and cannot stay in the world any longer.
Could We Handle Heavy Persecution?
By Ed Hicks1.2K35:18PersecutionIn this sermon, the speaker reflects on the commitment and faith of believers in comparison to the dedication of a Russian comrade. He questions whether believers today could handle heavy persecution, suggesting that their commitments are not strong enough and their faith is not pure enough. The speaker then provides a list of suggestions for believers to strengthen their commitment and faith, including clearly expressing their Christianity, pursuing lost souls with the gospel, and confronting those who can bring about change. The sermon emphasizes the need for believers to make holy and sacrificial vows unto God and to deepen their understanding of the Word of God.
What Will You Do When You Face the Fire?
By E.L. Bynum1.2K55:59PersecutionJOB 1:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the promise of God to never leave or forsake His people, even in the midst of trials and challenges. The preacher uses the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace as an example of God's faithfulness. Despite being thrown into the fire, these three men were miraculously protected and unharmed because God was with them. The preacher encourages the audience to trust in God and remain faithful, knowing that He is able to work behind the scenes and bring glory to Himself in any situation.
Persecution & the Cross
By Steve Gallagher1.1K04:28PersecutionMAT 10:39MAT 16:25LUK 9:23ACT 1:8ROM 8:18HEB 12:21PE 4:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a mindset focused on the eternal joy and purpose that comes from following Jesus. He references Jesus' instructions to his disciples to turn from selfish ways, take up their cross daily, and follow him. The speaker encourages believers to let go of their lives for the sake of Jesus, knowing that they will ultimately save it. He also discusses the upcoming persecution and suffering that believers may face, but highlights the incredible blessings and power that God will pour out on his people during this time. The speaker concludes by expressing excitement for a conference that will address these topics and encourage believers to embrace the joy set before them and despise the shame.
Scattered
By Jack Hyles1.0K1:02:27PersecutionLUK 14:16ACT 17:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the church spreading the gospel and winning people to Christ. He acknowledges that some may doubt or criticize this approach, but he asserts that it is the church's duty to go out and share the message of salvation. The preacher shares a personal anecdote about losing his fatigue cap in the military and relates it to the idea of fulfilling one's responsibilities. He also mentions a biblical story about an earthquake that opened prison doors, highlighting the power of God to bring about miraculous events. Overall, the sermon encourages believers to be bold in their faith and actively engage in evangelism.
Revival Amidst (Islamic & Communistic) Persecution
By Peter Hammond1.0K58:07PersecutionPSA 16:10PSA 68:18ISA 7:14MAT 6:33In this video, Peter Hammond from Frontline Fellowship in Cape Town, South Africa, discusses their work in Sudan. They focus on three main areas: Love and Action, which includes medical assistance, literature distribution, and providing Bibles in multiple languages to different regions, even in enemy territory. They also emphasize leadership training, having trained hundreds of pastors and conducted Muslim evangelism workshops. The video highlights the testimonies of Sudanese Christians who have endured persecution and suffering but remain joyful and steadfast in their faith. The ultimate goal is to see Sudan become a strong Christian nation once again, with the church growing rapidly and the potential for even northern Sudan to be won to Christ.
Imperial Persecutions
By Robin Boisvert82249:59PersecutionACT 8:30In this sermon, the speaker discusses the context of the Roman Empire during the second and third centuries AD. The Empire was vast, stretching from Britain to Persia, but it was also facing challenges from barbarian hordes at its borders. The speaker emphasizes that despite the decline in economics and moral life, the church is a school for sinners and a society of saints. The mention of Constantine highlights the mingling of church and state during this time.
The Persecuted
By Anton Bosch69549:38PersecutionMAT 5:3ROM 12:14HEB 13:31PE 2:231PE 4:41PE 4:121PE 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a meek and fearful attitude when facing persecution for the sake of Christ. He encourages believers to maintain a good conscience and conduct themselves in a way that brings glory to God, even when they are falsely accused. The preacher also highlights the example of Christ, who suffered in the flesh and calls believers to arm themselves with the same mindset. He reminds them that when they suffer for doing good, it is better to endure it according to God's will rather than for doing evil. The sermon also references Matthew chapter 5, specifically the Beatitudes, to remind believers that those who suffer for the name of Christ are blessed and will receive the spirit of glory and God's rest upon them.
A Westerner Reflects on Persecution
By Bob Faulkner65106:00PersecutionMAT 10:38MAT 16:24MRK 8:34LUK 9:23LUK 14:27PHP 3:10In this sermon, the speaker raises important questions about carrying the cross in the midst of abundance and persecution. He challenges listeners to consider whether they are willing to make sacrifices when others are indulging in worldly pleasures. The speaker also questions the focus of Western Christianity, suggesting that it may be too concerned with numbers and success rather than the true message of the cross. He emphasizes the need for Christians to prioritize building great Christians rather than just great churches. The sermon concludes with a call to pray for North Korea and a reminder to seek God's will in our lives.
Beheading in the Bible: Are You Ready to Lose Your Head for Jesus?
By Jason Cooley51750:50Persecution1KI 18:4MAT 6:33MAT 14:8ACT 20:22ACT 21:13REV 20:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of making a daily decision to serve Christ and live for Him. He challenges the audience to abstain from evil and be separated unto God. The preacher highlights the reality that people have lost their lives for the cause of Christ and warns that the day is coming when Americans will have to choose whether they are willing to die for Jesus. He urges the listeners to spiritually prepare for persecution and be ready for a time when they may not be able to gather in churches. The sermon references Revelation 20:4 and Acts 21:13 to emphasize the significance of being willing to give up one's life for the witness of Jesus and the word of God.
Testimony
By Richard Wurmbrand3131:09:57PersecutionLUK 6:22In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of remaining faithful to God even in difficult circumstances, using the example of Jesus' crucifixion. He emphasizes the need for Christians to support and help those who are persecuted for their faith through a Christian mission called Voice of the Martyrs. The preacher shares a story of a man who endured 18 years of imprisonment and then was sent to work in a coal mine in Siberia, yet remained steadfast in his faith and even sang songs of praise. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God's glory can be seen in the faces and joy of those who suffer for their faith.
The Peoples Church, Toronto Am
By Richard Wurmbrand21356:19PersecutionMAT 6:331PE 4:11In this sermon, Pastor Richard Wernbrand shares his experiences of being imprisoned for 14 years in communist jails. He describes the harsh conditions they endured, including being kept in solitary confinement underground, without seeing sunlight or having access to books or writing materials. Despite the physical and emotional hardships, Pastor Wernbrand reflects on the power of silence in allowing him to hear and confront his past sins and lies. He emphasizes the importance of speaking as the oracles of God and encourages believers to know and live by the words of the Bible.
The Peoples Church, Toronto Pm
By Richard Wurmbrand19154:53PersecutionNUM 19:14ZEP 3:17MAT 6:33In this video, the speaker shares about various ministries in the Hong Kong field that are supported by the audience. One of the ministries mentioned is the Tell Evangelism Ministry, where workers use cassette tapes to share three-minute Bible stories. Another ministry mentioned is the Bible Correspondence Course, which has over three thousand students. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of knowing and remembering the name of Jesus above all else, and shares a Bible verse from Numbers 19:14 about cleanliness after death in a tent.
Let Us Watch and Be Wary
By Tyson Culberson18122:12Persecution1TH 5:5In this sermon, the speaker begins by reminding the audience that they are children of light and should not be like those who are in darkness. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being watchful and sober, especially in the times leading up to the Lord's return. The main focus of the sermon is on Micah chapter 7, where the speaker highlights the state of corruption and injustice among people. Despite this, the speaker also emphasizes God's faithfulness and mercy, stating that He will pardon iniquity and have compassion on His people.
Learning From Persecution
By Peter Hammond15649:29PersecutionEXO 32:26JHN 15:181PE 1:6REV 6:15REV 7:9REV 7:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a faith that is not just intellectual, but also heartfelt and practical. He shares his personal experience of finding joy in the midst of difficult circumstances and learning valuable lessons from them. The speaker highlights the power of prayer and persistence, using the example of a persistent widow who obtained justice from an unjust judge. He also references the stories of Jeremiah Denton and Captain Redmayrd Daniels, who maintained their sanity and strength through physical exercise and mental focus during their time in communist prisons. The sermon concludes with an emphasis on the importance of Bible study, prayer fellowship, decentralization, Bible memorization, and fearing God.