“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” –Matthew 10:21-22
In the Middle East, this is the stark reality for those who’ve chosen to take up their cross and follow Christ.
They’re hated by their communities and those closest to them, including family.
In some of the most extreme cases of persecution, Muslim believers are betrayed and even murdered by relatives because of their faith in Jesus, yet they stand strong in their convictions in Christ.
As believers in the West, we may never experience the level of opposition they face, but we suffer alongside them as the unified Body of Christ.
“If one part suffers, every part suffers with it…” -1 Corinthians 12:26
And in their suffering, we have a call to cry out to God on their behalf, asking Him to fill them with a boldness that testifies to the radical grace and strength only found in knowing Jesus Christ.
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.” –Ephesians 6:19-20
For centuries, believers have approached God’s throne of grace on behalf of those suffering for their faith.
Take part in praying for the whole Church today, including those who face persecution because of their faith.