Just half an hour after the stroke of the New Year, a bomb exploded in a church in the city of Alexandria, Egypt which was holding her church service. Twenty-one persons died while 79 others were injured. It was the worst attack in a decade compared to the past which included shootings but never suicide bombing. Christians have increasingly blamed the government for not taking violence against them or anti-Christian sentiment among Muslim hardliners seriously. As a result some Christians unleashed their anger on the authorities and clashed with the police on the streets.

Reflecting on Persecution

It is important to empathize with Christians there. When you and your family are continually bullied for your faith and the relevant authorities refuse to address your sufferings, it is very frustrating and hurting. On the other hand, however, Christians also need to know understand several truths. First, that Christians are persecuted for their faith should come as no surprise to us.

Jesus said: “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen youout of the world. That is why the world hates you” (John 15:19). Christians are citizens of Heaven and not the world. Hence, the world hates the children of God. In fact, if the world loves you, there may be something wrong with you. It could be because you are no different from them—living in sin. Again, “lighthas come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed” (John 3:19). When a person believes in Jesus, he receives the holy eternal life of God and will hence live holy lives. The Bible says the world loves darkness and the pleasures of sin and hence dislikes the children of God.

Responding to Persecution

Also, every Christian will be persecuted in one way or another. It can come when you refuse to lie for your company. People may not like to associate with you because you refuse to enjoy the pleasures of sin. Other Christians in some countries face life dangers because they are Christians. How should you respond to persecution? First, Jesus said: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 5:10). Hence, if people make life difficult for you because you are a Christian, rejoice because you will be rewarded by God. Have faith in God. God will keep His promise to you.

Second, “love your enemiesand pray for those who persecute you” (Matt 5:44). Return good for evil. Do not take revenge by physical violence or verbal retaliation. Learn to keep quiet. When in pain or hurt, tell your Lord who loves you and knows your hurts. Ask Him for strength to walk right before Him. You can be sure that He understands your hurts because “we do not have a high priest [Jesus]who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approachthe throne of grace with confidence,so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb 4:15-16).