How should believers respond when facing opposition for sharing God's message? Setting the Scene in Jeremiah 36 Jeremiah 36 records a scroll containing God’s warning to Judah. When the scroll is read to King Jehoiakim, he cuts it up and burns it. Then comes the critical line: Jeremiah 36:26: “Instead, the king ordered men to seize Baruch and Jeremiah, but the LORD hid them.” The king’s hostility is clear, yet the Lord sovereignly shields His servants. God’s Protection of Faithful Messengers • God acts: “the LORD hid them.” • Baruch and Jeremiah stayed faithful; God supplied safety. • Protection may be physical, spiritual, or eternal—but it is certain (see Psalm 91:2: “You are my refuge and fortress”). Expecting Opposition—A Consistent Biblical Theme • Jesus: Matthew 5:11–12 (excerpt) “Blessed are you when people insult you…because of Me.” • Apostles: Acts 5:29 “We must obey God rather than men.” • Paul: 2 Timothy 3:12 “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • Peter: 1 Peter 4:16 (excerpt) “If anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed.” Practical Ways to Respond Today 1. Remain obedient—keep proclaiming truth even when it costs. 2. Trust God’s timing—He can “hide” you or sustain you through hardship. 3. Anchor in prayer and Scripture—let God’s promises steady your heart. 4. Keep a clear conscience—opposition is easier to endure when motives are pure. 5. Stay gracious—speak the message without bitterness (cf. 2 Timothy 2:24–25). Promises That Encourage Perseverance • Isaiah 54:17—no weapon formed against you will prevail. • Acts 4:19–20 (excerpt) “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” • Revelation 21:7—overcomers inherit all things. Summing It Up Opposition is inevitable, but so is God’s faithfulness. Like Jeremiah and Baruch, believers answer hostility with obedience, confidence in divine protection, and unwavering commitment to the message entrusted to them. |
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