Christian Persecution

• Jesus: 'Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.'
• Not all persecution has a totally negative effect. It may also help Christians to develop their faith and strengthen their convictions as believers.
• When their beliefs are challenged Christians have to decide whether or not to be fully committed to the faith.
• Tertullian (second-century Church Father): 'The blood of martyrs is the seed of the Church'
• Persecution


  Helps the Church grow because people witness the calm assurance and hope of eternal life that Christians have
• Whether faced with verbal or physical abuse, Christians are still encouraged to show love and overcome evil with good.
• Turning the other cheek


  If someone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also
• The Church campaigns on behalf of persecuted Christians and supports them where possible.
• Christians who smuggled Bibles into the USSR during Communist persecutions

  • Brother Andrew, Daniel Scalf, David Hathaway
• Barnabas Fund


  Sends financial support to projects that help Christians suffering from discrimination, oppression and persecution because of their faith, aims to strengthen Christian individuals, churches and communities, and raise awareness of the plight of the persecuted
• Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW)

  Christian human rights organisation that campaigns for religious freedom for all, uses strategies like documenting and raising awareness of religious persecution, influencing governments, offering training in human rights law, and helping the oppressed to speak up for themselves