Out of the Darkness

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 

– James 1:2–3

According to Open Doors’ 2024 report on Christian persecution, our brothers and sisters in faith are being targeted worldwide — particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Last year, almost 15,000 churches and Christian properties were attacked. About 10,000 churches were forcibly closed in China. One in five Christians in Africa were victimized, especially in Nigeria. And the report reveals that it’s effectively a death sentence in North Korea if you’re discovered to be a Christ-follower. Other Asian nations where persecution runs rampant include India, Myanmar, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

But religious oppression isn’t isolated to faraway lands. Here in the United States, recent incidents include Wayne State University’s de-recognition of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship — all because the group requires its leaders to be Christian. A Seattle-area assistant high school football coach was suspended for repeatedly praying on the field after games. The Colorado Civil Rights Commission twice targeted a Christian baker for declining to produce decorative cakes that celebrate same-sex marriage and gender transitioning. And last year, a gunman killed three adults and three children at the faith-based Covenant School in Nashville. The shooter’s manifesto cited her hatred of her conservative Christian upbringing as a primary motive.

Christ-followers shouldn’t be shocked by such disturbing headlines. In fact, let’s consider the following admonition from the apostle Peter — biblical guidance that’s just as applicable now as it was nearly 2,000 years ago:

“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”

Peter adds that “… those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” But how can we do that amidst our current adversities? Let’s start by embracing these words from Jesus as recorded in John 15:20:

“Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.”

From the earliest Christ-followers to their 21st century counterparts like you and me, Believers have experienced dark times marked by persecution. But it’s because of this darkness that many outside our faith are finally recognizing their own plight — as well as their need for solid answers and a bright future. Let’s therefore turn our faith into light by embodying Jesus' truth and love. Matthew’s gospel puts it this way:

“Make your light shine, so that others will see the good that you do and will praise your Father in heaven.”