Podcasts about Persecution

As the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in 2021, many Afghan Christians—especially those widely known to be followers of Christ—had to flee the country. Today, many of those Christians grieve the loss of their homeland, especially as they watch the suffering of their countrymen under Taliban rule. Some desire to return but while they wait are still faithfully reaching Afghans through a variety of digital means. In Part 2 of our conversation with author John Weaver (Part 1), he calls us to pray God will bless Afghan people—including both persecuted Christians and the governing Taliban—and that God will draw many to Himself. Listen as Weaver, the author of Najiba: A Love Story from Afghanistan (affiliate link), shares what life is like for Afghans now under Taliban rule. He will also tell what life is like for those who've fled the country and deal with the culture shock of navigating healthcare, education, work and relationships in a completely new environment and culture. As Christians, John gives us advice on first steps in welcoming Afghans into our communities and churches. Christians in Afghanistan are seeing increased response to the gospel as they discern hearts that are hungry and seeking truth. Once they become followers of Jesus, new Afghan Christians hunger for like-minded fellowship. Pray for the Taliban to lead with peace and focus on what's best for Afghanistan's people. Most importantly, pray for their salvation. Pray for our brothers and sisters in Afghanistan to know God is with them and for endurance in their faith. Pray for Afghans sharing the gospel through social media as they continue in their ministry. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast. Or you can listen each week—and get daily prayer reminders—in the VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.

According to tradition, St. Thaddeus and St. Bartholomew evangelized the region of Armenia in the first century. In the year 301, it became the first nation to declare itself Christian. Through centuries of warfare and oppression, its Christian identity has endured as part of Armenian culture, despite repeated attempts by neighbors to stamp it out.  In 1915, the Turkish Ottoman Empire killed an estimated 1.2 million people during what has become known as the Armenian Genocide. Under the pretext that they were insufficiently loyal to the empire, Ottoman authorities shot entire villages, forcibly converted families to Islam, and marched hundreds of thousands of women and children into the Syrian desert to die. The brutal campaign of extermination led to a significant diaspora of Armenians to other countries.   Even after Armenia emerged from Soviet dominance and declared itself an independent republic at the end of the 20th century, peace has remained elusive. Armenia has faced decades of conflict over the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region, where some 100,000 Armenian Christians now live but which Muslim-majority Azerbaijan sees as its territory. In 2020, as the world was preoccupied with the global pandemic, Azerbaijan waged war against Armenia. Seven thousand lives were taken, and the region has remained in the shadow of a fragile ceasefire since.   Today, most Armenians exist in a state of uncertainty. Given their control over the region, it may be that Azerbaijan is poised to commit a second Armenian genocide. According to University Network for Human Rights researcher Thomas Becker,  Over the past decade, Azerbaijani officials have invoked language used in the Rwandan genocide and the Holocaust, referring to Armenians as a “cancer tumor” and a “disease” to be “treated.” More recently, the country's authoritarian leader Ilham Aliyev has threatened to “drive [Armenians] away like dogs.”  The situation seems dire with Russia, Armenia's ostensible security guarantor, bogged down in its own war against Ukraine, and with Iran, Armenia's southern neighbor eager to fill the security vacuum. However, an unexpected recent development is that a significant number of Armenia's diaspora population has been returning to their homeland. After a hundred years of exile and living in places like Russia, France, and the United States, an estimated 50,000 Armenians repatriated prior to 2020, with thousands more joining them every year since.   For some, the motivation to return is economic. For others, it's about standing with fellow Armenians in the face of war. However, for many, the calling is about their faith. As the dean of Armenian Apostolic seminary put it, “We as a nation are called to witness to Jesus Christ in a very difficult region. … Our very existence is a testimony of Christianity.”  Lara Setrakian, an Armenian American journalist, moved back with her family at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. In a recent podcast, she put it this way,   I am doing what I'm called to do … and it is to be a helper like Mr. Rogers would say. It is a catastrophe. There are crises. But I want to be among the helpers. … We're not interested in not being Christian ... For Christians … this country is one big test of faith. And people I see are rising to the occasion. And they are finding strength, and they … have not ever given up. … They haven't given up the cross; they haven't given up their language, their love, their dance. They embody the resilience that we're all looking for.   Another repatriated Armenian mused, “In America, I had a good life: a big house, a good car. But when I say, ‘good life,' I mean something else.”  As so many in the West reel from a crisis of meaning, Armenian Christians have found joy in the face of severe hardship. In that way, we have much to learn from our Armenian brothers and sisters, even as we ask God to bless them, to strengthen their faith, and to bring peace to the nation they are rebuilding.  This Breakpoint was co-authored by Kasey Leander. For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org. 

Is following Jesus worth the persecution it brings? In today's episode, Patrick uses 1 Thessalonians 1 to encourage Christians to persevere even when the world is against you. Join the TMBT community in reading the entire New Testament in one year. Get your FREE reading plan here. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it with others, so others can find it too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter@TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: 1 Thessalonians 1

Pete and Peyton revisit episode 8 of the Church Planter Podcast, remembering the time they bumped into Rick Warren, broke conference rules, and learned not to take themselves too seriously.Thanks for listening to the church planter podcast. We're here to help you go where no one else is going and do what no one else is doing to reach people, no one else is reaching.Make sure to review and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast service to help us connect with more church planters.

Truth For Health with DrLee4America – Another political persecution by the rogue Biden Administration and global “Deep State” has gone after another freedom warrior – Dr. Reiner Fuellmich. But if the Biden political persecutors and other global attackers think that Reiner Fuellmich is one to go quietly into the dark night of oblivion, they are...

Twenty months into the second Taliban rule of Afghanistan, all Afghans—but especially Afghan Christians—face great challenges. What pressures do our persecuted brothers and sisters face living in Afghanistan today, and how has their life changed under the strict Islamic rule of the Taliban? Listen as John Weaver, author of Inside Afghanistan, A Flame on the Frontline, and Najiba: A Love Story from Afghanistan (affiliate links), explains what life is like for Muslims and Christians in Afghanistan as they experience economic crisis and lack of assistance from the outside world. Many of the Taliban fighters come from the Pashtun people group, one of the largest unreached people groups in the world with 50 million people primarily in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Persecution against Afghan Christians has always come from local mosques, communities, and families. With the Taliban takeover, the nation's government is now also openly opposed to the gospel. Amid isolation and economic hardship, many Afghans are desperate and dissatisfied with Islam. That dissatisfaction means they are more open to the gospel. Christian brothers and sisters in Afghanistan continue boldly witness in conversations with Muslims. Listen as John tells how Christians are carefully sharing the gospel and finding “people of peace” in their communities. Pray for Afghan Christians outside the country who are reaching their people through digital tools and pray for wider distribution of the Pashtun Bible. Pray the Holy Spirit will draw more Afghan people to become followers of Jesus Christ. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast Or you can listen each week—and get daily prayer reminders—in the VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.

- Falun Dafa Practitioners Celebrate World Falun Dafa Day Across the Globe - Chinese Citizens Celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and Thank Master Li - New Practitioners in Hong Kong Thank Master Li for Introducing Falun Dafa to the World - Melbourne, Australia: Candlelight Vigil Commemorates Victims of the Persecution in China - Winchester, Virginia, USA: Falun Dafa's Principles Resonate with Spectators at the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Parade - Chinese Nationals Enjoy Shen Yun Globally

On Washington Wednesday, after a four-year investigation the Durham report is out; on World Tour, a story about ethnic clashes in Manipur, India; and helping people in Africa get access to clean water. Plus, the rise of smile coaches in Japan, commentary from Janie B Cheaney, and the Wednesday morning news.Support The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donate.Additional support comes from Ridge Haven Camp and Retreat Centers announcing their Cono Christian Day School, 23-24 academic year in Walker, Iowa. More at ridgehaven.orgFrom Concurrently, the News Coach podcast helping you prepare your kids to faithfully engage with culture. More at concurrentlypodcast.com.And from Children's Hunger Fund:-Over 700 million meals distributed since 1991.-Just 25¢ can provide a meal for a hungry child.-Serving in 30 countries, including the US.Since 1991, Children's Hunger Fund (CHF) has come alongside the local church in 30 countries, including the US, to deliver food, aid, and the hope of the gospel. To date, 96% of total contributions—over 1 billion dollars in food and other aid—have been distributed through programs serving more than 20 million children across America and around the world. CHF has consistently received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator. CHF has distribution centers in San Antonio, Frisco, and their Los Angeles headquarters. To learn more, visit ChidrensHungerFund.org/world.

Paul and Silas are stripped, beaten, and bound in jail by an angry mob at Philippi.  While at prayer in the middle of the night, they are freed when an earthquake shakes the foundations of the prison, and they preach the Gospel to the jailer and his household.   May 16, 2023 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

It is illegal to bring a Bible into North Korea, and illegal to possess one inside the country. But VOM continues to find ways to get God's Word into the hands of North Koreans. Dr. Eric Foley, CEO of VOM Korea in Seoul, says everything changes every day in North Korea, bringing new challenges and requiring new responses to continue bringing the gospel to desperate people in “the hermit kingdom.” Listen to hear how persecuted Christians in North Korea practice biblical obedience in spite of a brutal regime that demands utter loyalty. How can Christians follow the first commandment, “You shall have no other gods before me,” while living in a country that deifies members of the Kim family? Dr. Foley shares how, despite the consequences for even the slightest hint of Christian behavior, our brothers and sisters continue to boldly take risks and exercise wisdom to follow Christ inside North Korea. One way members of the persecuted church in the DPRK are encouraged and discipled is through VOM radio broadcasts sharing passages from the Bible or sermons delivered in the North Korean dialect. With five broadcast times throughout the day, Dr. Foley asks us to pray that the Lord would continue thwarting efforts of the North Korean government to jam these Christian radio broadcasts.  Dr. Foley, author of These Are The Generations (affiliate link), will also share his own story of persecution for spreading the gospel to North Korea. He reminds us that getting God's Word out, even just one copy, is worth it. Pray for North Koran Christians to be faithful to Christ as they go about their daily lives in this restricted nation, and for more North Koreans to be able to read and listen to the Bible for themselves. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast Or you can listen each week—and get daily prayer reminders—in the VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.

The Rebel News podcasts features free audio-only versions of select RebelNews+ content and other Rebel News long-form videos, livestreams, and interviews. Monday to Friday enjoy the audio version of Ezra Levant's daily TV-style show, The Ezra Levant Show, where Ezra gives you his contrarian and conservative take on free speech, politics, and foreign policy through in-depth commentary and interviews. Wednesday evenings you can listen to the audio version of The Gunn Show with Sheila Gunn Reid the Chief Reporter of Rebel News. Sheila brings a western sensibility to Canadian news. With one foot in the oil patch and one foot in agriculture, Sheila challenges mainstream media narratives and stands up for Albertans. If you want to watch the video versions of these podcasts, make sure to begin your free RebelNewsPlus trial by subscribing at http://www.RebelNewsPlus.com

Fr. Mike touches on the sins of David, and how we can see ourselves in these fallen characters in scripture. God desires a relationship with us free from sin, and although it may be painful, he brings these things into the light not out of anger, but out of love. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 12, 1 Chronicles 16, and Psalm 51. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

What are you willing to lose to know God better? Pastor Jeff asks us if we are willing to forego things of this world to follow the savior.

"From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force." Matthew 11:12 What must happen for the American church to experience an ACTUAL great Awakening? Author, Pastor, and Artist Doug Giles joins Jeremy Slayden on JSlayUSA to answer this exact question as well as explaining why we should not be surprised by the open hostility being waged towards Christians and a Christian Worldview. What is the correct response? Doug's New Book: John the Baptist, A Rude Awakening Precedes a Great Awakening: https://www.amazon.com/John-Baptist-Awakening-Precedes-Great/dp/1618082159/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1680547622&sr=8-1 The politically incorrect ministry of John the Baptist was the prelude to the person and work of Jesus Christ. John was the opening act. If we want “Jesus” in our life, home, church and culture then we must embrace ourselves for “John's” abrasive message of repentance. The message that will eternally change you, will first immediately confront you and offend you. The messenger, like John the Baptist, will offend you as well. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness are cool with both. They don't care if their flesh gets pinched and the message gets pitched by a wild prophet. All they want is God's will to be done, on earth as it is in heaven. This new book from best-selling author, Doug Giles, is a must-read for any Christian serious about spurning today's worldly culture and getting closer to God. Join our Warrior MBS program to become a man of strength and valor: https://warriormbs.com The Doug Giles Hub: https://douggiles.org Nashville, Bible, Christianity, Faith, Persecution, Biden, Doug Giles, Audrey Hale, School Shooting

In this week's episode, Evangelist Chance Walters highlights the progression of persecution in the first century church and gives us some thoughts on how to respond to it in our day. This is an episode you do not want to miss!

Join me for today's Daily Word & Prayer to learn about a recent outbreak of persecution against Christian tribes in Manipur, India to join me in prayer for their safety.Scripture Used in Today's Message1 Timothy 2:1-2Who do you know that needs to hear today's message? Go ahead and forward this to them along with a prayer that God will use it in their life.To become a TSCM Ministry Partner, click herehttps://www.tomthepreacher.com/supportTo find Tom on Instagram, Facebook, TicTok, and elsewhere, go to linktr.ee/tomthepreacher Have you read my book, "Takin' it to Their Turf"?If not, you may request a copy on my website, www.TomthePreacher.comWe send a copy to anyone who donates to our ministry, but if you can't do so, simply request a copy by sending us an email.************ Do you want to have all your sins forgiven and know God personally? *********Check out my video "The Bridge Diagram" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0Kjwrlind8&t=1sCheck out my website, www.TomthePreacher.com, to learn more about my ministry and sign up for my daily email. And make sure to request a copy of my book, Takin' it to Their Turf, when you visit my website.Check out my videos on this channel to learn how to answer tough questions challenging our faith.

Dedicate this sermon to our 2023 GRADS - 4 P's(Matthew 5; John 16; Acts 8; II Timothy 3:12)I. The Persecution bc of the Gospel Continues - II. The Progress of the Gospel Continues - 11:20-26III. The Poverty bc of the Gospel Begins - 11:27-30(Romans 15:22-27)

Born and raised in a Muslim family, Brother Maksud says it's a miracle he is now a follower of Jesus Christ. Maksud's first years of life were under communist rule as his country was part of the Soviet Union, but it became independent, and more Islamic, after the fall of the USSR. As different factions battled for post-Soviet control, civil war broke out, a difficult time for Maksud and all of his countrymen. Yet good news was coming. Listen as Maksud tells how he was impacted by seeing the JESUS Film and hearing Jesus speak Maksud's own language. He'll share how a Christian stepped into his family's life, becoming a faithful friend and sharing stories from the Bible about God. Years later Maksud heard those same stories at a free Taekwondo lesson, another step on his pathway to following Jesus. When Maksud first stepped into a church, he was shocked. It was a completely different atmosphere from anything he'd known. It was full of love; people greeted him by name with hugs. He was floored when believers at the church told him they had been praying for him for more than a year. At age 18, Maksud made the decision to follow Jesus. His younger brother wasn't far behind. When they shared their Christian faith with their mom, she cried, knowing their family would be shamed and face persecution in their Muslim culture. Maksud's father was not home when they announced their newfound faith to their mother. When he heard of their decision, he asked both brothers to confirm their decision to follow Jesus. Expecting their father to be angry, both young men said that yes, they had become Christians. Their father's response shocked them: “Thanks to God. Two years ago, I gave my life to Christ. I didn't know how to tell you, but I was praying for you guys.” Many people in Central Asia, upon sharing their faith in Christ with family members, face beatings, rejection, and being kicked out of their home. Even though Maksud didn't experience persecution from inside his home, he knew that he and his brothers would be persecuted by others. Today Maksud is a pastor, and his brother also pastors a church. Listen as he tells how we can pray for his people in Central Asia, including praying that whole families will come to Christ together. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast. Or you can listen each week—and get daily reminders to pray for persecuted Christians—in the new VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.

A new government report finds religious persecution around the world is growing, states that decriminalized drugs are rethinking that plan and John and Maria discuss a leading voice in Artificial Intelligence saying he regrets his life work.

As we continue our series on how to effectively engage with the global church through praying, giving, going, and staying, this second episode focuses on the personal and wider impact of obedient giving.Today, Dara Lynn and Jennifer are joined by Mark Howard, a non-profit development director with a pastor's heart. He shares with us the impact obedient giving can have in the life of a believer as well as in the life of the global church. Mark also talks about his personal experience with the Persian-speaking church and how the ministry God has currently called him to is very different than the one he envisioned.For more information about the recent history and incredible growth of the Iranian church please visit elam.com/iran-story.For more information about our organization, please visit elam.com.

Let not your heart be troubled, belief in Christ is our saving grace.  Judges 2:6-Judges 3, John 4:27-42, Psalms 56:1-13 

May 3, 2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stjohnrandomlake/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stjohnrandomlake/support

4-year-old Christian boy forced to attend London school's gay pride parade; Persecution rises globally against people of faith; The Covid pandemic's impact on American spirituality; Massachusetts school boy suspended for wearing 2 genders t-shirt.

2 Timothy 4:1-8 – Paul taught that many people in this world cannot bear sound doctrine. Instead, they persecute it. The Foundation Preacher Podcast is provided to you by WELS Congregational Services. The Foundation resources were created to help churches allow the gospel message heard in worship, to echo throughout the week. Listen to multiple […]

What's the downside of following Jesus?   Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. Mark 10:29-30 ESV   I didn't mention a phrase yesterday that is in this version of this story. It's not in the Matthew or Luke versions. The phrase is in verse 30, "with persecutions."   I don't know why Luke or Matthew don't include this. But here, the Greek word used is in scripture 10 times and they are all translated "persecution" or "persecutions."   We live in a broken world. Jesus is much more aware of this than we are. We don't even know what we don't know about how broken the world is. Yet, knowing what he knows, he still promises us 100 times what we give up and eternal life.   We have nothing to lose. Persecution comes with living for the sake of the gospel. It's a package deal. Our enemy the devil doesn't want us to share about God to others. So persecution will come. Jesus reminds us. He says "There is no one who has left..."   Today, let's not let our circumstances take us out. Jesus has provided for us. We talked yesterday about how the blessings are a lock. The persecution is too, but the consequences of it aren't forever. The blessings are. Let's remember to invest in others today and not be surprised by the results.   Want to practice your faith a bit? Why not join us for a 2-week exercise to transform your work with your faith. We have created a reasonable way of sharing the gospel without being obnoxious. We practice that on the Marketplace Mission Trip. It's a 2-week exercise where we are intentional for between 15 and 45 minutes a day for 2 weeks. It will transform how you live your faith. Find out more at www.MarketplaceMissionTrip.com. Then next one begins in just a few days.

Matthew 10:16–33 | Patrick Nave

Only God can reach into terrible evil and wrench out of it positive good for you and glory for himself. He works all things for good.

Matter of Cancinos-Mancio, 28 I&N Dec. 708 (BIA 2023) modified categorical approach; reviewable documents; plea colloquy; crime of violence; Ariz. Rev. State § 13-1204(A)(2)  Cortez-Amador v. Att'y Gen. U.S., No. 22-1249 (3d Cir. Apr. 25, 2023) Special Immigrant Juvenile Status; SIJS; INA § 245(h); admission or parole; Patel; jurisdiction; death threats; Guatemala  Reese v. Garland, No. 22-6011 (5th Cir. Apr. 24, 2023) visa fraud; 18 U.S.C. § 1546(a); INA § 237(a)(1)(H) waiver; INA § 237(a)(3)(B)(iii); due process; family unity Caldera-Torres v. Garland, No. 22-2282 (7th Cir. Apr. 27, 2023) crime of domestic violence; INA § 237(a)(2)(E)(i); Wis. Stat. § 940.19(1); circumstance specific approach; Pereida; domestic abuse surcharge; burdens  Somers v. USA, No. 19-1484 (11th Cir. Apr. 25, 2023) Borden; crime of violence; recklessness; Fla. Stat. § 784.021; Fla. St. 784.011(1); violent force; Florida Supreme Court decisions  Kerr v. Garland, No. 21-2074 (4th Cir. Apr. 24, 2023) CAT; aggregate risk of torture; compounding effect of harms; LGBTQ; former gang members; Jamaica  Santos Garcia v. Garland, No. 22-1535 (1st Cir. Apr. 28, 2023) asylum; persecution; death threats; Lider Party; Guatemala  Sharma v. Garland, No. 22-1496 (1st Cir. Apr. 28, 2023) derivative citizenship; former INA § 321(a); objective manifestation; Zombie Precedent; Nwozuzu; Cheneau Sponsors and friends of the podcast!Kurzban Kurzban Tetzeli and Pratt P.A.Immigration, serious injury, and business lawyers serving clients in Florida, California, and all over the world for over 40 years.Docketwise"Modern immigration software & case management"Joorney Business Plans"Business-critical documents for every stage of your journey"For 30% off use code: REVJOORNEY30  Capital Good Fund"A social change organization that uses financial services to tackle poverty in America."Want to become a patron?Click here to check out our Patreon Page!CONTACT INFORMATIONEmail: kgregg@kktplaw.comFacebook: @immigrationreviewInstagram: @immigrationreviewTwitter: @immreviewDISCLAIMER:Immigration Review® is a podcast made available for educational purposes only. It does not provide legal advice. Rather, it offers general information and insights from publicly available immigration cases. By accessing and listening to the podcast, you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the host. The podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed attorney in your state.MUSIC CREDITS:"Loopster," "Bass Vibes," "Chill Wave," and "Funk Game Loop" Kevin MacLeod - Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Support the show

Threats - Arrests - Flogging - Persecution:  Followers of Christ in the early church faced it all. Acts 5 shows us how the Apostles responded and how the Holy Spirit stepped in when it seemed all odds were against them.Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/sunrisecommunitychurchWatch live on Mondays at 10am: www.facebook.com/sunrisecommunityonline/liveSong: Fredji - Happy Life (Vlog No Copyright Music)Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.Video Link: https://youtu.be/KzQiRABVARk

We speak to Matt Tice who is the Director of Vive, a shelter for refugees and asylum seekers in Western New York. Afterwards, Angelea Preston and Emyle Watkins sit down to talk with Kasha Davis. Kasha is a drag artist in the Western New York area that engages in drag-themed reading hours.

Check out this message from Pastor Mark Benson at Dothan First.

Acts Series

One night, TK, extremely sick, found himself in his room praying, “I am ill and if you are the one true God then I will commit my life to you.” TK slept through the night and woke up completely healed! From that moment, he was committed to following Christ. His father—a former drug dealer who met Christ in prison for his crimes—encouraged TK to learn more about the one true God. With passion for following Christ after he had experienced God's power over disease, TK went to Bible school in Thailand. Returning to Laos with Christian materials to help his ministry, TK was arrested at the border and imprisoned for three months before God ordained his release from prison. Today TK serves persecuted Christians inside Laos and holds a leadership position within Laos's registered church organization. He says at the time of his arrest it was common for Christians in Laos to endure physical suffering for being a Christian—arrests, beatings and other pressure. Today, he says, mental and spiritual pressure for following Christ is more common, including being ostracized by family members, cut off from work or educational opportunities and even being kicked out of your village. Listen as TK shares what our persecuted church family faces in Laos today. TK will also explain how he is serving persecuted brothers and sisters there. Pray for communist authorities in Laos and for wisdom and discernment for TK as he assists persecuted Christians. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast. Or you can listen each week—and get daily prayer reminders—in the new VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.

In the last chapters of 1 Samuel, Fr. Mike focuses on David's wisdom in battle through his prayer and ability to unite the people of Israel. He also touches on Psalm 18 and how wonderful things can happen once we allow ourselves to be loved by God. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 29-31 and Psalm 18. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

How can you, your family, and your local church endure future persecution? By making an intentional decision today to live not by lies. Regardless of the country you live in, this episode will help you and your loved ones prepare to stand when pressures mount. In this encore episode, which originally aired November 1, 2011, Rod Dreher joined Andy to share insights from his recent book, “Live Not By Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents.”  Listen in as Dreher shares insightful stories from Christians who endured persecution under the Soviet Union and the Communist Bloc. You will discover helpful tips from those who have gone before us, and those who recognize alarming signs in our cultures today. You will also hear how Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, a dissident under the Soviets, encouraged the powerless to reject lies, especially mandated lies.  If this information is helpful to you, please give us a positive rating and review. Likewise, share this episode with friends and fellow believers who need help standing up under mounting pressures. To learn more about resources mentioned in this episode, see the following. Rod Dreher (Twitter): @roddreher Live Not By Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents, by Rod Dreher (Book): https://www.christianbook.com/not-by-lies-manual-christian-dissidents/rod-dreher/9780593087398/pd/087392?event=ESRCN The American Conservative: https://www.theamericanconservative.com/ Substack Page – Rod Dreher: https://roddreher.substack.com/   Christian Emergency Alliance: https://www.christianemergency.com/ Follow the Christian Emergency Alliance on Twitter: @ChristianEmerg1 Follow the Christian Emergency Alliance on Facebook: @ChristianEmergency The Christian Emergency Podcast is a production of the Christian Emergency Alliance. Soli Deo Gloria

We are here to inspire, motivate, and provide answers! As we grow, Dan will be adding some augmentation to the podcast and share random thought nuggets that are a bit shorter in length and just meant to inspire, encourage, motivate, and answer questions. One of the things that Bride Ministries Church does is what is referred to as "people time." On Sundays, after the service, we take questions live from our internet listeners, and Dan responds to them. Some of this will begin to drive the podcast.Covered in this episode:The next wave of attack is comingThe next wave of persecutionBuilding bridges to build solutions for those survivors of satanic ritual abuseThe flow of authority in kingdom dynamicsThe importance of ministry activation.

[00:30] Trump: Ready for War (8 minutes) At a rally in New Hampshire yesterday, Donald Trump explained his warlike presidential strategy. [8:30] Biden Abandons Americans in Sudan (11 minutes) Although many other nations are evacuating their citizens from Sudan, the Biden administration evacuated its diplomatic staff but left an estimated 16,000 American citizens behind. The U.S. claims it is “currently not safe” to evacuate these citizens. [19:00] More January 6 Persecution (14 minutes) Jack Smith, the special counsel investigating Trump's involvement in the protest on Jan. 6, 2021, wants Abby Grossberg's recordings of Fox News employees. Grossberg was the head of booking for Tucker Carlson's show—and also a mole who recorded the private conversations of several Fox News hosts. [37:30] Uphold the Purity of Godly Language (18 minutes) Profanity is so common today that most people cannot speak without regularly using curse words and unclean language. God expects true Christians to strive for purity in conduct and speech.

Morning: 2 Samuel 17–18 2 Samuel 17–18 (Listen) Hushai Saves David 17 Moreover, Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Let me choose twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue David tonight. 2 I will come upon him while he is weary and discouraged and throw him into a panic, and all the people who are with him will flee. I will strike down only the king, 3 and I will bring all the people back to you as a bride comes home to her husband. You seek the life of only one man,1 and all the people will be at peace.” 4 And the advice seemed right in the eyes of Absalom and all the elders of Israel. 5 Then Absalom said, “Call Hushai the Archite also, and let us hear what he has to say.” 6 And when Hushai came to Absalom, Absalom said to him, “Thus has Ahithophel spoken; shall we do as he says? If not, you speak.” 7 Then Hushai said to Absalom, “This time the counsel that Ahithophel has given is not good.” 8 Hushai said, “You know that your father and his men are mighty men, and that they are enraged,2 like a bear robbed of her cubs in the field. Besides, your father is expert in war; he will not spend the night with the people. 9 Behold, even now he has hidden himself in one of the pits or in some other place. And as soon as some of the people fall3 at the first attack, whoever hears it will say, ‘There has been a slaughter among the people who follow Absalom.' 10 Then even the valiant man, whose heart is like the heart of a lion, will utterly melt with fear, for all Israel knows that your father is a mighty man, and that those who are with him are valiant men. 11 But my counsel is that all Israel be gathered to you, from Dan to Beersheba, as the sand by the sea for multitude, and that you go to battle in person. 12 So we shall come upon him in some place where he is to be found, and we shall light upon him as the dew falls on the ground, and of him and all the men with him not one will be left. 13 If he withdraws into a city, then all Israel will bring ropes to that city, and we shall drag it into the valley, until not even a pebble is to be found there.” 14 And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel.” For the LORD had ordained4 to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, so that the LORD might bring harm upon Absalom. 15 Then Hushai said to Zadok and Abiathar the priests, “Thus and so did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel, and thus and so have I counseled. 16 Now therefore send quickly and tell David, ‘Do not stay tonight at the fords of the wilderness, but by all means pass over, lest the king and all the people who are with him be swallowed up.'” 17 Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz were waiting at En-rogel. A female servant was to go and tell them, and they were to go and tell King David, for they were not to be seen entering the city. 18 But a young man saw them and told Absalom. So both of them went away quickly and came to the house of a man at Bahurim, who had a well in his courtyard. And they went down into it. 19 And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth and scattered grain on it, and nothing was known of it. 20 When Absalom's servants came to the woman at the house, they said, “Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?” And the woman said to them, “They have gone over the brook5 of water.” And when they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem. 21 After they had gone, the men came up out of the well, and went and told King David. They said to David, “Arise, and go quickly over the water, for thus and so has Ahithophel counseled against you.” 22 Then David arose, and all the people who were with him, and they crossed the Jordan. By daybreak not one was left who had not crossed the Jordan. 23 When Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his donkey and went off home to his own city. He set his house in order and hanged himself, and he died and was buried in the tomb of his father. 24 Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom crossed the Jordan with all the men of Israel. 25 Now Absalom had set Amasa over the army instead of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra the Ishmaelite,6 who had married Abigal the daughter of Nahash, sister of Zeruiah, Joab's mother. 26 And Israel and Absalom encamped in the land of Gilead. 27 When David came to Mahanaim, Shobi the son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites, and Machir the son of Ammiel from Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim, 28 brought beds, basins, and earthen vessels, wheat, barley, flour, parched grain, beans and lentils,7 29 honey and curds and sheep and cheese from the herd, for David and the people with him to eat, for they said, “The people are hungry and weary and thirsty in the wilderness.” Absalom Killed 18 Then David mustered the men who were with him and set over them commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds. 2 And David sent out the army, one third under the command of Joab, one third under the command of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother, and one third under the command of Ittai the Gittite. And the king said to the men, “I myself will also go out with you.” 3 But the men said, “You shall not go out. For if we flee, they will not care about us. If half of us die, they will not care about us. But you are worth ten thousand of us. Therefore it is better that you send us help from the city.” 4 The king said to them, “Whatever seems best to you I will do.” So the king stood at the side of the gate, while all the army marched out by hundreds and by thousands. 5 And the king ordered Joab and Abishai and Ittai, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom.” And all the people heard when the king gave orders to all the commanders about Absalom. 6 So the army went out into the field against Israel, and the battle was fought in the forest of Ephraim. 7 And the men of Israel were defeated there by the servants of David, and the loss there was great on that day, twenty thousand men. 8 The battle spread over the face of all the country, and the forest devoured more people that day than the sword. 9 And Absalom happened to meet the servants of David. Absalom was riding on his mule, and the mule went under the thick branches of a great oak,8 and his head caught fast in the oak, and he was suspended between heaven and earth, while the mule that was under him went on. 10 And a certain man saw it and told Joab, “Behold, I saw Absalom hanging in an oak.” 11 Joab said to the man who told him, “What, you saw him! Why then did you not strike him there to the ground? I would have been glad to give you ten pieces of silver and a belt.” 12 But the man said to Joab, “Even if I felt in my hand the weight of a thousand pieces of silver, I would not reach out my hand against the king's son, for in our hearing the king commanded you and Abishai and Ittai, ‘For my sake protect the young man Absalom.' 13 On the other hand, if I had dealt treacherously against his life9 (and there is nothing hidden from the king), then you yourself would have stood aloof.” 14 Joab said, “I will not waste time like this with you.” And he took three javelins in his hand and thrust them into the heart of Absalom while he was still alive in the oak. 15 And ten young men, Joab's armor-bearers, surrounded Absalom and struck him and killed him. 16 Then Joab blew the trumpet, and the troops came back from pursuing Israel, for Joab restrained them. 17 And they took Absalom and threw him into a great pit in the forest and raised over him a very great heap of stones. And all Israel fled every one to his own home. 18 Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and set up for himself the pillar that is in the King's Valley, for he said, “I have no son to keep my name in remembrance.” He called the pillar after his own name, and it is called Absalom's monument10 to this day. David Hears of Absalom's Death 19 Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said, “Let me run and carry news to the king that the LORD has delivered him from the hand of his enemies.” 20 And Joab said to him, “You are not to carry news today. You may carry news another day, but today you shall carry no news, because the king's son is dead.” 21 Then Joab said to the Cushite, “Go, tell the king what you have seen.” The Cushite bowed before Joab, and ran. 22 Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said again to Joab, “Come what may, let me also run after the Cushite.” And Joab said, “Why will you run, my son, seeing that you will have no reward for the news?” 23 “Come what may,” he said, “I will run.” So he said to him, “Run.” Then Ahimaaz ran by the way of the plain, and outran the Cushite. 24 Now David was sitting between the two gates, and the watchman went up to the roof of the gate by the wall, and when he lifted up his eyes and looked, he saw a man running alone. 25 The watchman called out and told the king. And the king said, “If he is alone, there is news in his mouth.” And he drew nearer and nearer. 26 The watchman saw another man running. And the watchman called to the gate and said, “See, another man running alone!” The king said, “He also brings news.” 27 The watchman said, “I think the running of the first is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok.” And the king said, “He is a good man and comes with good news.” 28 Then Ahimaaz cried out to the king, “All is well.” And he bowed before the king with his face to the earth and said, “Blessed be the LORD your God, who has delivered up the men who raised their hand against my lord the king.” 29 And the king said, “Is it well with the young man Absalom?” Ahimaaz answered, “When Joab sent the king's servant, your servant, I saw a great commotion, but I do not know what it was.” 30 And the king said, “Turn aside and stand here.” So he turned aside and stood still. David's Grief 31 And behold, the Cushite came, and the Cushite said, “Good news for my lord the king! For the LORD has delivered you this day from the hand of all who rose up against you.” 32 The king said to the Cushite, “Is it well with the young man Absalom?” And the Cushite answered, “May the enemies of my lord the king and all who rise up against you for evil be like that young man.” 33 11 And the king was deeply moved and went up to the chamber over the gate and wept. And as he went, he said, “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!” Footnotes [1] 17:3 Septuagint; Hebrew back to you. Like the return of the whole is the man whom you seek [2] 17:8 Hebrew bitter of soul [3] 17:9 Or And as he falls on them [4] 17:14 Hebrew commanded [5] 17:20 The meaning of the Hebrew word is uncertain [6] 17:25 Compare 1 Chronicles 2:17; Hebrew Israelite [7] 17:28 Hebrew adds and parched grain [8] 18:9 Or terebinth; also verses 10, 14 [9] 18:13 Or at the risk of my life [10] 18:18 Or Absalom's hand [11] 18:33 Ch 19:1 in Hebrew (ESV) Evening: Luke 21:1–19 Luke 21:1–19 (Listen) The Widow's Offering 21 Jesus1 looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box, 2 and he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins.2 3 And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. 4 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” Jesus Foretells Destruction of the Temple 5 And while some were speaking of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said, 6 “As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” 7 And they asked him, “Teacher, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?” 8 And he said, “See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!' and, ‘The time is at hand!' Do not go after them. 9 And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once.” Jesus Foretells Wars and Persecution 10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake. 13 This will be your opportunity to bear witness. 14 Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. 16 You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers3 and relatives and friends, and some of you they will put to death. 17 You will be hated by all for my name's sake. 18 But not a hair of your head will perish. 19 By your endurance you will gain your lives. Footnotes [1] 21:1 Greek He [2] 21:2 Greek two lepta; a lepton was a Jewish bronze or copper coin worth about 1/128 of a denarius (which was a day's wage for a laborer) [3] 21:16 Or parents and brothers and sisters (ESV)

I have accepted a new job and I recently had to get a drug screening. It made me think of Jesus. Listen to hear why. This is part of my month of stories about me. It's a little break from the regular interviews, but we're gearing up for a new season, season 5, of the Positively Joy podcast, which launches in May. I'm so excited to share with you all the new guests, including faithful women and men who have learned to find the joy of God despite trauma and loss. Their stories are compelling and will bless you. 

(0:00-20:00)Storytime(20:00-30:00)Understanding the Book of Revelation as the revelation of Jesus.(30:00-47:00)Persecution of ChristianityThe Spirit of Glory and the manifest presence of God in persecutionValuing heavenly rewards for those who overcome compromise (47:00-1:00:00)Overcoming worldly unbelief and unfaithfulnessOperating in faithWorshipping the Person of Jesus in the secret places(1:00:00-1:29:00)Recapping letters to the church of Ephesus and the church of SmyrnaThe Church growing in times of persecutionCounterfeit religionsArticles Mentioned:Christianity is the World's Most Persecuted ReligionVerses Mentioned:1 Peter 4:14Revelation 1-3Acts 5:33-42Learn more about New River Church by visiting us online at newriver.church.

The Bible says in 2 Timothy 3:12 that 'indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.." I don't know anybody that LIKES being persecuted.. Most people, myself included, enjoy being cool, friendly, and non-confrontational with everybody! The reality is, we can never please everybody.. especially when we've made a decision to live our life according to the Word of God. If the Bible says that all that desire to live a Godly life WILL (not might), suffer persecution.. then instead of trying to avoid it, we must learn how to handle it. Here are 3 ways. Listen to find out! Welcome into the ❤️ &

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Fr. Mike uses King Saul as an example that God does not unchoose those he has chosen, and never loses faith in us. Even if we feel someone is in power unjustly, it's God who decides who holds power, not us. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 24 and Psalm 57. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

This week we complete our conversation with Richard and Jeanette, an American couple who had served 10 years in China when police came knocking on their apartment door and they knew their gospel service in China was over. When we left off last week, Richard was being interrogated at a Chinese police station while Jeanette, his wife, prayed and was ministered to by their local church pastor and other Christian friends. Richard's interrogation continued the next day before police let him return home but warned him not to tell anyone—even his wife—about the questioning. He knew the interrogation wasn't over. In the ensuing weeks he was repeatedly called back to the police station. When he arrived home, Jeanette watched her husband closely, looking for signs of beatings or torture. The stress of each day—and not knowing when authorities would demand another trip to the police station—left Richard, at times, barely able to function. Some days he couldn't even get out of bed. He couldn't tell his wife what happened with the police, fearing anything he said would put her in danger of also being arrested or interrogated. Chinese police mockingly asked why he would follow Christ. They thought Jesus selfish to ask His followers give up family, jobs, money and success just to end up being locked in a police station. Yet even as they questioned him, Richard felt guidance from the Holy Spirit in how to answer their questions and even tried to plant seeds of the gospel in their conversations. Finally, Richard and Jeanette learned that they would be allowed to leave China but would likely never be allowed to return to the land and people they love deeply. Listen to hear how they were finally set free, and when they finally had the chance to talk to each other about all they'd gone through at the hands of communist Chinese police. You'll also hear how they are both thankful for the persecution they endured—and the fruit they've seen in their own lives and their family that grew directly out of their time of trial. They'll also help listeners pray for Christians in China as they endure persecution and suffering for their faith—without the opportunity to leave the country or the protection of a foreign passport. Listen to the first part of Richard and Jeanette's story here, and the second part here. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast. Or listen each week in the new VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.

Whistleblower Report - Sheila Holm, a former HR executive with Blue Cross Blue Shield, fought a 12-year legal battle to hold those responsible accountable on racketeering and economic fraud charges. She ultimately led to some of the criminals going to prison and one corrupt judge being removed from the bench. Learn about her journey and how she survived a bioweapon...

We left off last week as Richard and Jeanette's apartment was raided by 25 Chinese policemen. The couple knew that their time in China was over after 10 years of ministry, but they didn't know how long it might be before they were allowed to leave. Listen now as Jeanette recalls exactly what happened when she returned to their apartment to find police searching through their bookshelves and closets and questioning her husband. Despite the chaos of the raid, Jeanette continued relying on the sovereignty and goodness of God, reminding herself often that He is trustworthy no matter our circumstances. She prayed fervently for Richard as he was taken away by the police. Richard experienced God's sovereignty and the Holy Spirit at work as he sat in the police station interrogation room, living in the truth of Luke 12:11-12. In spite of police threats, Richard relied on scripture God brought to his mind and four things he knew he had to stand firm in as he tried to answer the police accusations. Listen also for how Chinese Christians supported Richard and Jeanette during their ordeal, including a local church pastor who knocked on their door and offered a bold prayer for Richard. Their local Christian community brought Jeanette great comfort, providing practical proof that the Lord was with them. Pray persecuted Chinese Christians will stand firm in faith and be encouraged by the Body of Christ. One group of Chinese Christians, the Mayflower Church, made the decision as a congregation to flee their homeland. Pastor Pan, leader of the group, was our guest on VOM Radio last month. Listen this week for a praise update on this group of believers and their immigration case. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast. Or listen each week in the VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.