PERSECUTION AND EVANGELISM
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 5:11-12
"Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."
Supporting Texts: 2 Timothy 3:12, Acts 5:40-42, 1 Peter 4:14-16, John 15:18-20, Romans 8:35-37
INTRODUCTION:
Persecution is an inevitable part of evangelism. Jesus Christ warned His followers that they would face opposition for proclaiming the gospel. From the early church to modern times, believers who share the good news of salvation have faced resistance, rejection, and even death.
The apostles endured great persecution, yet they remained steadfast in their mission. Stephen was stoned (Acts 7:54-60), Paul was beaten and imprisoned (2 Corinthians 11:23-25), and many others suffered for preaching Christ. However, their suffering did not stop the gospel from spreading. In fact, persecution has often led to the rapid expansion of Christianity.
As we engage in evangelism today, we must understand that persecution is not a sign of failure but a confirmation that we are walking in the footsteps of Christ. Let us examine how persecution affects evangelism and how we can remain faithful in the face of opposition.
1. PERSECUTION IS A MARK OF TRUE DISCIPLESHIP
Every true believer will face opposition in their evangelistic efforts.
a) Jesus warned us about persecution (John 15:18-20)
If the world hated Jesus, it will also hate His followers.
b) Persecution is proof that we belong to Christ (2 Timothy 3:12)
All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
c) Suffering for Christ brings eternal rewards (Matthew 5:11-12)
Those who endure persecution will receive a great reward in heaven.
d) Persecution purifies and strengthens our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7)
Trials refine our faith, making us stronger in our walk with God.
e) Biblical Example: The apostles rejoiced in their persecution (Acts 5:40-42)
They counted it as an honour to suffer for Christ.
2. WHY EVANGELISM ATTRACTS PERSECUTION
Preaching the gospel challenges the kingdom of darkness, leading to resistance.
a) The gospel exposes sin, provoking opposition (John 3:19-20)
Many reject the gospel because it convicts them of their sinful lifestyle.
b) The enemy fights against the spread of the gospel (Revelation 12:17)
Satan knows that evangelism sets people free, so he resists it.
c) The world does not understand the ways of God (1 Corinthians 2:14)
The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing.
d) False religions and traditions oppose Christianity (Matthew 10:34-36)
Many cultures and belief systems see the gospel as a threat.
e) Biblical Example: Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned for preaching (Acts 16:16-24)
Yet, their faithfulness led to the salvation of the jailer and his household.
3. RESPONDING TO PERSECUTION IN EVANGELISM
How should believers react when faced with opposition for preaching the gospel?
a) Rejoice and count it a blessing (James 1:2-3)
Trials develop perseverance and spiritual maturity.
b) Do not be ashamed of suffering for Christ (1 Peter 4:16)
If we suffer as Christians, we should glorify God.
c) Continue preaching the gospel boldly (Acts 4:29-31)
We must not let fear silence us.
d) Pray for strength and endurance (Ephesians 6:18-20)
The Holy Spirit empowers us to stand firm.
e) Biblical Example: Stephen forgave his persecutors even as they stoned him (Acts 7:59-60)
He followed the example of Christ, who prayed for His enemies.
4. THE ROLE OF PERSECUTION IN SPREADING THE GOSPEL
Throughout history, persecution has led to the growth of Christianity.
a) Persecution scatters believers, leading to wider evangelism (Acts 8:1-4)
The early church spread the gospel as they fled from persecution.
b) Martyrdom inspires faith and courage in others (Philippians 1:12-14)
When people see believers willing to die for Christ, they are encouraged to stand firm.
c) The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church (Revelation 6:9-11)
The sacrifices of past believers have strengthened Christianity today.
d) Persecution proves the power of the gospel (Romans 1:16)
Despite all opposition, the gospel continues to transform lives.
e) Biblical Example: The death of Stephen led to the conversion of Paul (Acts 9:1-6)
Paul, who persecuted Christians, later became one of the greatest evangelists.
5. STAYING FAITHFUL IN THE FACE OF PERSECUTION
To overcome persecution, we must hold on to God’s promises.
a) Remember that God is with us (Isaiah 41:10)
He will never leave us nor forsake us.
b) Stand on the unshakable word of God (Matthew 24:35)
His word remains true, no matter the opposition.
c) Seek strength from the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8)
He gives us power to be bold witnesses.
d) Encourage one another as believers (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Fellowship with other believers strengthens our faith.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel refused to stop praying despite persecution (Daniel 6:10-23)
God delivered him from the lion’s den because of his faithfulness.
CONCLUSION:
Persecution is not a sign of defeat but a confirmation that we are on the right path. When we face opposition in evangelism, we must not be discouraged but rejoice, knowing that we are partaking in Christ’s sufferings. The gospel is unstoppable, and no amount of persecution can hinder God’s plan.
As we preach the gospel, let us be bold, steadfast, and unwavering, trusting that God will sustain us. Even in the face of trials, the kingdom of God will continue to advance, and many souls will come to salvation.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, strengthen me to stand firm in the face of persecution.
2. Father, give me boldness to preach the gospel despite opposition.
3. Holy Spirit, empower me to endure trials and remain faithful.
4. Lord, turn every persecution into an opportunity for evangelism.
5. Father, let the blood of the persecuted believers bring revival to nations.
