So now you are in the middle of it. Persecution is raining down and you’ve been put under the authority or power of another.
Why did this happen, especially since nothing was done to deserve such a situation?
Jesus tells us why: “This will be your opportunity to bear witness” (Luke 21:13 ESV).
Personal Experience
Regrettably I must admit that, having been placed in such circumstances and situations, seeing them as a witnessing opportunity was not my initial thought.
Most generally it was questioning why I was there; checking to see if any personal actions warranted the persecutions.
…Or I would simply complain of the unjust treatment.
It was only later, after running down my list of “whys,” that I would finally come to the “bearing witness” option and realize it was an opportunity to show forth some semblance of Christianity that I may still have left—other than repentance for missing it altogether.
Suffering for Doing Good
The Apostle Peter gives great counsel in how to respond correctly in practicing Jesus’ words:
“For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.” (1 Peter 2:20 ESV)
The persecutions to our Christianity deal with the suffering for doing good, not because we have erred – which is a key in recognizing the circumstances as occasions to bear witness…and in possessing our souls.
Letting the Lord Speak For You
Our Lord also gives us the “how to” practically respond as well:
“Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer.”
(Luke 21:14 ESV)
No more, “I’m going to say…” planning!?! Ouch!
I have had some wonderful imaginary “beforehand” conversations, sorted out and ultimately filled with great wisdom (albeit carnal at best). I think the Lord’s words would also include “after-hand” meditation as well. You know, the “I should have said…” sentence that would have really made the point.
But rather than all this, my mind is to be settled not on any circumstance, but it is to be established on Him. Again, Peter gives us direction:
“but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord: being ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear.”
(1 Peter 3:15 ASV)
As we set apart Christ in our hearts—focusing, learning, and loving Him—we will be prepared to answer every man, because it is really not us who answers.
