Matthew 24:9-10 NKJV — “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. “And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.
The Pastor has given an opportunity for those who have heard the passionate sermon on the mission ministry and the wonderful way the Holy Spirit persuaded the people of that foreign land to give their lives to Jesus and the gift of salvation. How the tears of joy and the praise they gave to God for the peace and the freedom He gave them. To hear a message filled with such rewarding results lifts up the soul and inspires you to answer the call and join the mission field.
Many countries have programs and organizations related in helping US churches and ministries with coordinating mission trips in their country. What are the rules and what to expect during the time ministering the Gospel. In some of these countries there may be restrictions since other religions and beliefs are not so welcoming to Jesus Christ.
Luke 21:11-12 NKJV — “And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. “But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake.
Living in these “latter days” we have experienced the reality of Luke 21:11 and the need for Christian Missionaries have been overwhelming in these diverse areas but in our rush to comfort and minister we have to be cautious and take into consideration the warning that Jesus gave in verse 12. In the case of 4 believers in Christ the question, “In whom do you believe in?” and the answer given is the source of the persecution they are facing.
According to a CBN News report the nation of Iran and it’s hardline government has sentenced 4 Christians to harsh prison terms for putting their faith in Jesus Christ. Pastor Victor Bet-Tamraz and his wife Shamiram Issavi, who are ethnic Assyrian Christians, and Amin Afshar Naderi and Hadi Asgari, who are Christian converts from Islam, were sentenced to a combined total of 45 years in prison for allegedly conducting “illegal church activities” and spreading propaganda which reportedly “threaten national security.”
The report also states that the 4 Christians were solely arrested for practicing their Christian faith, including attending Christmas gatherings and organizing house churches. Iran, which is overwhelmingly Muslim, has a constitution that has restricted freedoms for non-Muslim citizens. The 4 Christians, who are currently free on bail, are awaiting the verdict of their appeal court.
We may not experience this kind of persecution here in the United States but in countries, such as Iran, the troubles can be very real. We must continuously pray for these 4 Christians for an early release or a drop of all charges. Missionary work can be very satisfying both emotionally and spiritually. We must always pray for those who answer the call. Jesus promised that He would always be with us and reminds us that during persecution that He will equip us with all that we need.
Luke 21:13-15 NKJV — “But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. “Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; “for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist.
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Photo Courtesy of Center for Human Rights in Iran.