Jesus prepares the disciples for persecution ~
Christianity doesn't guarantee an easy life. In fact, Jesus tells us that we will experience persecution. Why? Well, we are in a spiritual war. Satan is doing everything in his power to take us down in order to hurt God. So, how do we handle persecution & where will it come from?
The government - some governments are controlled by religious men who seek to destroy Christianity. Other governments may bend to the will of the people & order persecution. But we are not to worry. God will give us the words and peace needed during these trials.
Family & friends may turn against you. When persecution comes to one place, God tells us to leave that place and find a more welcoming area. He also tells us not to be afraid of man. God has control over what matters - our eternal souls. Man can only take away this world, but this world isn't where our focus should be. This world holds a few short years, but heaven will last forever.
The Jews were looking for a king who would bring peace to the land & establish Israel once again as a sovereign nation. However, Jesus tells us He didn't come to set up a worldly kingdom, He came to set up an eternal kingdom.
So, look to God. Speak His words to others, share His message. Receive Him & He will receive you. This is where our focus should be, not on the opinions and actions of others.
Notice how often this theme comes up - it's not about what others think, it's not about what the world tells you, it's all about Jesus. Look to Him & all the other issues fade away. Anything is possible through Christ.
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