If he didn't lie and told the truth of his Christianity, he would be in heaven as a martyr.
I suppose that life on earth here was more appealing at the time. :o(
...and thats what its all about.
Christians do not seek out and kill innocent people in furtherance of their martyrdom.
We (Christians) value this life on earth as precious and cannot fathom the rewards of our faith in Jesus Christ, But when the true test of faith comes, Jesus does not want you to deny Him or the Father and has promised eternal life in Heaven for believeing in Him.
..and yes, I too pray that I will have the courage of my convictions when the moment of truth comes.