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Persecutions have been a significant aspect of the Christian experience since the inception of the Church. The term "persecution" refers to the suffering, oppression, and hostility that believers face due to their faith in Jesus Christ. This entry explores the biblical understanding of persecutions, their historical context, and their theological significance.

Biblical Context

Persecutions are a recurring theme throughout the Bible, both in the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, the prophets often faced opposition and hostility for delivering God's messages. For example, Jeremiah was imprisoned and threatened with death for prophesying against Jerusalem (Jeremiah 38:6).

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ Himself warned His followers about the inevitability of persecution. In the Gospel of John, Jesus states, "If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first" (John 15:18). He further assures His disciples, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!" (John 16:33).

The early Church experienced significant persecution, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. The stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, marked the beginning of widespread persecution against the Church (Acts 7:54-60). Saul of Tarsus, who later became the Apostle Paul, was initially a fierce persecutor of Christians (Acts 8:3).

Apostolic Teachings

The Apostles consistently taught that persecution is an expected part of the Christian life. The Apostle Paul, who endured numerous hardships for the sake of the Gospel, wrote to Timothy, "Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). Paul also encouraged believers to rejoice in their sufferings, knowing that such trials produce perseverance and character (Romans 5:3-4).

Peter, another prominent apostle, exhorted Christians to endure suffering for righteousness' sake, stating, "But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. 'Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened'" (1 Peter 3:14). He further reminded believers that they share in Christ's sufferings and will also share in His glory (1 Peter 4:13).

Historical Context

Throughout history, Christians have faced persecution in various forms, from social ostracism to physical violence. The Roman Empire was notorious for its brutal treatment of Christians, who were often blamed for societal problems and subjected to public executions. Despite this, the Church continued to grow, demonstrating the resilience and faith of its members.

In more recent times, Christians in certain parts of the world continue to face persecution. This includes restrictions on religious freedom, imprisonment, and even martyrdom. The global Church remains vigilant in prayer and support for those who suffer for their faith.

Theological Significance

Persecution serves as a refining process for believers, strengthening their faith and dependence on God. It is seen as a participation in the sufferings of Christ, who Himself was persecuted and crucified. The New Testament encourages believers to view persecution as an opportunity to witness to the truth of the Gospel and to demonstrate the love and forgiveness of Christ.

Moreover, persecution is a reminder of the spiritual battle between the forces of good and evil. It underscores the reality of living in a fallen world that is often hostile to the message of salvation. Yet, Christians are called to respond with love, patience, and unwavering faith, trusting in God's ultimate justice and deliverance.

In summary, persecutions are an integral part of the Christian narrative, deeply rooted in biblical teachings and historical experiences. They challenge believers to remain steadfast in their faith, offering a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel.1375. diogmos -- persecution
... Word Origin from dioko Definition persecution NASB Word Usage persecution (5),
persecutions (5). persecution. From dioko; persecution -- persecution....

That Afflictions andPersecutions Arise for the Sake of Our Being...
... 9. That afflictions andpersecutions arise for the sake of our being proved.
In Deuteronomy, "The Lord your God proveth you, that...

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... LESSON XXV. THEPERSECUTIONS. "Blessed are they which are persecuted for
righteousness' sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.""Matt v.10...

That Injuries and Penalties ofPersecutions are not to be Feared...
... 10. That injuries and penalties ofpersecutions are not to be feared by us, because
greater is the Lord to protect than the devil to assault....

Of thePersecutions in Persia and of them that were Martyred There...
... Book V. Chapter XXXVIII."Of thepersecutions in Persia and of them that
were martyred there. At this time Isdigirdes, [948] King...

ThePersecutions of the Church.
... CHAPTER II. THEPERSECUTIONS OF THE CHURCH. Thepersecutions of the early Church
form an important and deeply interesting portion of its history....

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... Book II. Chapter XXXIII. Well, the end of thepersecutions was reached
eighty-eight years ago? Well, the end of thepersecutions...

ThePersecutions of the Apostolic Church, and Its Condition at the...
... CHURCH. CHAPTER XI. THEPERSECUTIONS OF THE APOSTOLIC CHURCH, AND ITS CONDITION
AT THE TERMINATION OF THE FIRST CENTURY. Jesus Christ...

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... CHRIST'S JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM TO ATTEND THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES. Section 192. His
Precautions against thePersecutions of the Sanhedrim. (John, vii.)...

Persecutions of Herod Antipas. (Luke, xiii. , 31. )
... CHAPTER XII. CHRIST'S RETURN FROM CAPERNAUM TO JERUSALEM THROUGH SAMARIA. Section
220.Persecutions of Herod Antipas. (Luke, xiii., 31.)....

Whether we Should Believe what Some Think, That, as the Ten...
... Chapter 52."Whether We Should Believe What Some Think, That, as the TenPersecutions
Which are Past Have Been Fulfilled, There Remains No Other Beyond the...

Persecutions (5 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version ConcordancePersecutions (5 Occurrences). Mark 10:30 but he
will receive one hundred times more now in this time, houses...

Afflictions (24 Occurrences)
... 2 Thessalonians 1:4 so that we ourselves boast about you in the assemblies of God
for your patience and faith in all yourpersecutions and in the afflictions...

Sufferings (27 Occurrences)
... 2 Timothy 3:11persecutions, and sufferings: those things that happened to me
at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. I endured thosepersecutions....

Ico'nium (6 Occurrences)
... 2 Timothy 3:11 thepersecutions, the afflictions, that befel me in Antioch, in Iconium,
in Lystra; whatpersecutions I endured, and out of all the Lord did...

Rescued (49 Occurrences)
... (See NAS). 2 Timothy 3:11persecutions, and sufferings: those things that happened
to me at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. I endured thosepersecutions....

Endured (22 Occurrences)
... (WEY NAS). 2 Timothy 3:11persecutions, and sufferings: those things that happened
to me at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. I endured thosepersecutions....

Eunice (1 Occurrence)
... This conclusion is confirmed in 2 Timothy 3:11, where Paul recalls to Timothy the
fact that he had fully known thepersecutions and afflictions which came to...

Befel (1 Occurrence)
... Befel (1 Occurrence). 2 Timothy 3:11persecutions, sufferings. What things befell
me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; whatpersecutions I endured....

Befell (8 Occurrences)
... 2 Timothy 3:11persecutions, sufferings. What things befell me at Antioch,
at Iconium, at Lystra; whatpersecutions I endured. And...

Amid (31 Occurrences)
... so increases that we ourselves make honourable mention of you among the Churches
of God because of your patience and faith amid all yourpersecutions and amid...

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