Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10

During China’s Boxer Rebellion of 1900, Christians were forced to either desecrate the cross or be shot. The first seven students trampled on the cross and were set free, yet the eighth student refused to commit the sacrilegious act. Before facing the firing squad, the young lady knelt in prayer by the cross and faced her death. Strengthened by her example, every one of the remaining ninety-two students followed her to the firing squad.

The persecution of the church can be traced back to its forming days when many Christians had to pay the ultimate price with their life. While choosing Christ meant automatic torture, it also meant automatic citizenship in heaven. This was portrayed in the final message of the Sermon on the Mount. Consequently, persecution is one of the surest and most tangible evidences of salvation (2 Timothy 3:12). We will be persecuted because to live for Christ is to live in conflict with Satan. Righteous living contrasts and, by its very nature, confronts wicked living. Yet for those ashamed of Christ and His words will be ashamed by Jesus (Luke 9:26). If you were there during the time of China’s Boxer Rebellion, would you have faced the firing squad or been ashamed by Jesus?

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” – Jim Elliot, martyr