12
Sep '25
The Purpose and Plan of Intensified Persecution
12
Sep '25
Introduction: Persecution is ramping up! God’s people are being targeted. Hatred is spreading. Both Jews and Christians are in the crosshairs, literally. The devil’s crowd is attacking any and everyone who holds a biblical worldview.
The lines that have been drawn in the sand for thousands of years are moving closer toward the End time scenario found in the Bible. What does the Word of God have to say?
1. When believers are done wrong, and suffer! (2 Thess. 1:5) – “Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer.”
Let’s face it! We do NOT see suffering as God sees it. For instance, in regards to Jesus, the writer to Hebrews says (Heb. 5:7–9): “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.”
So, our Lord views suffering and affliction in a different light. After all, isn’t His purpose to conform us to the image of Christ? How does He do that? He does that by allowing us to go through the fires of affliction, hardships, and adversity. But in it and thru it, as we respond properly, He makes us more like Jesus. Remember, He is the Potter and we are the clay. Are you being molded right now?
2. Jesus will make it right by pay back! (2 Thess. 1:6) – “Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you.”
Did you notice the word “recompense”? It is the word ἀνταποδίδωμι, which means to render, or to repay. It can mean paid back. What is God saying? He is saying that HE ALWAYS has the FINAL SAY SO! In other words, He will make the WRONG–RIGHT!
Conclusion: Expect more persecution. Prepare for more battles. Arm yourself with the whole armor of God! But in the end, know this: not only will our Lord use the suffering for our good, but He will deal with those who persecute His people, whether here on earth or in eternity; judgment is inevitable.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese