Topical Encyclopedia The theme of divine protection for the saints during times of persecution is a recurring motif throughout the Scriptures. This protection is not always manifested in the form of physical deliverance but often in spiritual fortitude, peace, and the assurance of God's presence. The Bible provides numerous examples and promises that underscore God's commitment to safeguarding His people amidst trials and tribulations.Old Testament Foundations The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding God's protective nature. In the Psalms, David frequently speaks of God as a refuge and fortress. Psalm 91:1-2 declares, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" This imagery of God as a protective shelter is a powerful assurance for believers facing adversity. The account of Daniel in the lion's den (Daniel 6) is a vivid illustration of God's protection. Despite being thrown into a den of lions for his unwavering faith, Daniel is unharmed, demonstrating God's ability to deliver His faithful servants from mortal danger. New Testament Assurance In the New Testament, Jesus Christ Himself promises His followers that they will face persecution but assures them of His presence and peace. In John 16:33 , Jesus says, "I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world." This statement highlights the dual reality of persecution and divine peace. The Apostle Paul, who experienced extensive persecution, writes in Romans 8:35-39 about the inseparable love of Christ: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?... No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Paul emphasizes that no external circumstance, including persecution, can sever the believer from the love and protection of God. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in providing protection and comfort to the saints. In Acts 4:31 , after Peter and John are released from custody, the early church prays, and "they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly." The Spirit empowers believers to withstand persecution with courage and boldness. Eternal Perspective While physical protection is not always guaranteed, the Bible assures believers of an eternal perspective. In 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 , Paul writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." This perspective encourages believers to endure persecution with the hope of eternal reward. Conclusion The biblical narrative consistently affirms that while persecution is an expected part of the Christian journey, God's protection is vouchsafed to His saints. This protection may manifest in various forms, including spiritual strength, peace, and the assurance of God's presence, ultimately pointing to the eternal security found in Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 21:18But there shall not an hair of your head perish. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Fire! Fire! Fire! The Savoy Declaration of the Congregational Churches. AD 1658. The Foundation of the Church among the Jews The Holy See and the Wandering of the Nations. On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xx. 30, About the Two Blind Men ... Who is the Rich Man that Shall be Saved? Covenanting a Duty. Sermons on Selected Lessons of the Gospels. Seances Historiques De Geneve --The National Church. Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... Resources Does Satan have to get God's permission before he can attack us? | GotQuestions.orgWhat items should be included in a church constitution? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that love always protects (1 Corinthians 13:7)? | GotQuestions.org Protection: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Protection is Afforded to Returning Sinners Protection is Afforded to The Church Protection is Afforded to The Oppressed Protection is Afforded to The Perfect in Heart Protection is Afforded to The Poor Protection is Afforded to Those Who Hearken to God Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in all Dangers Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in all Places Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Calamities Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Death Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Defeating the Counsels of Enemies Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Defending Them Against Their Enemies Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Their Feet Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them from Evil Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them from Falling Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them from Temptation Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them in the Way Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Persecution Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Preserving Them Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Providing a Refuge for Them Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Sleep Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Strengthening Them Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Temptation Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Upholding Them Protection of God Is: Effectual Protection of God Is: Encouraging Protection of God Is: Indispensable Protection of God Is: Often Afforded Through Means Inadequate in Themselves Protection of God Is: Perpetual Protection of God Is: Seasonable Protection of God Is: Unfailing Protection of God Is: Uninterrupted Protection: God is Able to Afford Protection: God is Faithful to Afford Protection: Not to be Found in Horses Protection: Not to be Found in Hosts Protection: Not to be Found in Idols Protection: Not to be Found in Man Protection: Not to be Found in Riches Protection: Saints: Acknowledge God As Their Protection: Saints: Praise God For Protection: Withdrawn from The: Backsliding Protection: Withdrawn from The: Disobedient Protection: Withdrawn from The: Obstinately Impenitent Protection: Withdrawn from The: Presumptuous Protection: Withdrawn from The: Unbelieving Related Terms |
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