Jesus and His disciples did not warn us what will occur if they persecute us; they told us how we must hold fast when they persecute us. The persecution of Christ's followers is Scripturally a foregone conclusion.
In factm everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived ... 2Tim: 3,12
If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first ... If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also ... They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me ... John 15: 18,20,21
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, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you ... Matthew 5: 11
American Christians, as His 'modern day disciples', can expect no better treatment from unbelievers than The Twelve received almost two thousand years ago. Nor will the deceivers be any more kind than they were back then.
And that small remnant that remains true to Him, not falling prey to the world's wickedness, will suffer increased earthly persecusions, even death, which is why the knowledge that there is a glory that lies beyond this pain is of such eternal significance.
Thank you for the wonderful insights, B4Ranch!
~ joanie
TRUE. TRUE.
Excellent points.