How can we support those spreading the gospel amid opposition today? Setting the Scene: Opposition Is Not New “who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets and drove us out; they are displeasing to God and hostile to everyone” (1 Thessalonians 2:15). • Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers that gospel messengers have always faced hostility—from the prophets, to Christ Himself, to the apostles. • Opposition never surprised God; it still doesn’t. Our role now is to stand with those facing the same storm. Seeing the Same Pattern Today • Around the world, evangelists are expelled, censored, threatened, or pressured to compromise. • Just as “they drove us out,” many today are forced from workplaces, campuses, or even countries because of the gospel. • Scripture calls this “the fellowship of His sufferings” (Philippians 3:10). Why Our Support Matters • Hebrews 10:33–34 shows believers “accepted the confiscation of your property” because others were attacked for the faith—solidarity in loss became a testimony. • Philippians 4:14–16 praises a church that “shared in my troubles” and financed Paul’s mission when no one else did. • Romans 15:30 urges, “strive together with me in prayer to God”—intercession is frontline ministry. Practical Ways to Stand With Gospel Bearers Spiritual • Daily, specific intercession—name workers, locations, and needs (Colossians 4:3–4). • Fasting for breakthroughs where doors seem shut (Acts 13:2–3). • Speaking words of prophetic encouragement—emails, calls, recordings that quote Scripture and remind them of God’s promises (Isaiah 41:10). Emotional • Regular check-ins: celebrate victories, listen to fears (2 Timothy 1:16–17). • Share testimonies from home so they see fruit multiplying (3 John 4–8). • Stand publicly with them on social media or church platforms, refusing to let them feel isolated (Proverbs 17:17). Material • Consistent funding—predictable support sustains focus (1 Corinthians 9:14). • Emergency relief when persecution brings fines, property loss, or medical bills (James 2:15–16). • Supplying tools: Bibles, secure communication tech, training resources (2 Timothy 4:13). Advocacy • Write representatives and petition authorities when unjust laws target believers (Acts 16:37–39). • Partner with legal aid ministries defending freedom to preach (Proverbs 31:8). • Amplify credible reports of persecution to awaken churches that may be unaware (Hebrews 13:3). Hospitality • Provide safe houses during furloughs or emergency evacuations (Acts 18:2–3). • Invite missionaries to rest, debrief, and receive counseling without expectations of public speaking (Mark 6:31). • Send teams for short visits focused on serving, not supervising—repair facilities, teach children, or cover preaching schedules. Guarding Our Own Hearts While We Help • Refuse bitterness toward persecutors; overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). • Expect opposition at home when you align with frontline workers (2 Timothy 3:12). • Rehearse Christ’s promise: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness” (Matthew 5:10). Encouragement flows authentically when hope in eternal reward is real. Anticipating God’s Response • Bold witness under pressure often sparks revival (Acts 8:1–8). • Generous supporters share equal credit for the harvest (1 Samuel 30:24; Philippians 4:17). • Present suffering points to future glory beyond comparison (2 Corinthians 4:17). Moving Forward Together Paul’s sobering words in 1 Thessalonians 2:15 reveal both the cost and the certainty of gospel advance. Standing shoulder to shoulder with today’s messengers—through prayer, provision, encouragement, advocacy, and hospitality—we participate in God’s unstoppable plan to “fill the earth with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD” (Habakkuk 2:14). |
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