- Think about the last time someone insulted, provoked, or spread lies about you. How did you respond and why?
- When we are defending our own honor, we often become angry and indignant. But Matthew 5:12 says that when we are insulted, persecuted, or slandered for Christ’s sake, we ought to rejoice. In fact, that word can be translated as ‘leap for joy’. Why should we do this? How do you feel about that? What might be a more typical response of Christians than ‘leaping for joy’?
- Someone once said that persecution is the Christian’s badge of honour since it is identification with both the family of God and the prophets of old. Considering the treatment of those in the family of God in Hebrews 11:35-38 and the prophets of old in Matthew 23:30, 1 Kings 18:13, and Nehemiah 9:26, what courage can we take from these examples when we are oppressed or reviled? How does 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 help you to persevere?
- How did Paul describe his badge of honour in Galatians 6:17? What was his aspiration according to Philippians 3:10? What part of that verse is more appealing? Why?
- Read Matt 19:27-29, Phil 1:20 and 1 Peter 4:19. Why does Christ offer no pity toward those who are persecuted for righteousness sake?
- How might our comforts as middle-class Canadians, as compared to other parts of the world and our nation, weaken our resolve in facing persecution or opposition to our faith?
- Where in your life are you experiencing opposition right now? What are you going to do to face this opposition the way Jesus envisions?
- If it became a crime to be a Christian in Canada tomorrow, would there be enough evidence to convict you? What changes can you make today to ensure that your faith is clear and compelling to those around you?
