Responses to persecution
The importance of the worldwide Church including how Christian churches respond to persecution.
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Persecution
Persecution
Persecution is when a person (or a group) is badly treated and harmed.
Since the time of Jesus, Christians have been persecuted simply for their beliefs - Jesus was tortured and killed, and it is reported that his disciples met similar fates. Early Christians were often killed by lions or other wild animals in 'sporting' contests.
Examples of persecution
Examples of persecution
In the modern world Christians face persecution around the world. They face bad treatment including pressure to give up their beliefs, or making it illegal to practice their faith (e.g., making it illegal to attend church).
Examples
Responses to persecution
Responses to persecution
Christians (e.g., those living in safety in the UK) want to help those being persecuted. Examples of what they might do:
Prayer - they will ask God to protect the Christians who are facing persecution. They believe that because God is omnibenevolent he will want to help protect them.
Create safety - they may attempt to move the persecuted Christians to places of safety - eg by helping them to seek asylum in the UK.
They want to help persecuted Christians because:
In the Bible Jesus taught to love your neighbour - for example in the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Helping people who are suffering persecution is an example of agape (unconditional love).
In the Bible Jesus himself helped those who were being persecuted - he helped outcasts in society, and by helping those who are persecuted, Christians are following the example set by Jesus.
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