At Bible study last night, we watched a DVD entitled, “Expelled, No Intelligence Allowed.” It was about the controversy over the words “intelligent design” (ID). Professional (scientists, professors, and journalists) believers and even unbelievers are being persecuted for even mentioning those words. Even Christian institutions are involved in persecuting advocates of ID. That’s sad. As a student of church history, I’m aware that the medieval church burned committed Christians at the steak (William Tyndale in 1536 and John Huss in 1415). Tyndale was first strangled and then burned. Huss was betrayed and then burned. While the modern liberal church isn’t executing Christians as far as I know, it is strangely endorsing severe mistreatment of true believers in Christ. Scripture reminds us that “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). Notice it doesn’t say caused by only the world. Another passage says, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name” (1 Peter 4:12-16). Be encouraged by those words. If your biblical beliefs goes against unbiblical beliefs of churches, denominations, Christian institutions, etc., persecution will be a normal response. Don’t be ashamed nor fearful (as much as possible), but glorify God in the name of Jesus.
Blessings!
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