Podcasts about Persecution

Special thanks to Undeceptions Season 16 major sponsor Zondervan Academic. A popular myth is that when the Roman Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity, he forced everyone else to embrace the faith - or else face deadly consequences.But this couldn't be further from the truth.It was under Constantine that the very modern-sounding ideas of freedom of religion and “justice for all” were first instituted.These were revolutionary ideals, and they came from a very smart, learned Christian in the Emperor's inner circle.FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - https://undeceptions.com/podcast/against-coercion/(00:00) - - One of history's great persuaders (07:50) - - Persecution and the Crisis of the Third Century (11:25) - - Christianity and Neoplatonism (19:17) - - Lactantius: The Christian Cicero (32:34) - - Lactantius and Constantine (40:50) - - Constantine and religious tolerance (49:30) - - Arguing Christian ethics from pagan philosophy (53:05) - - Freedom of religion and Thomas Jefferson (57:48) - - Lactantius and justice (01:09:09) - - Five Minute Jesus (01:13:38) - - Lactantius' legacy CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative and a point of contact for church pastors interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions.  Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out. Undeceptions sponsors: Zondervan AcademicAnglican AidSelah Travel 

On The Bruce Collins Show, Bruce interviews Brent Dusing, CEO of TruPlay Games (www.TruPlayGames.com), for an in-depth discussion on faith-based gaming, Christian media platforms, digital free speech, Big Tech bias, app store policies, content moderation, religious discrimination, Google Play Store restrictions, TikTok algorithm visibility, Christian entrepreneurship, family-friendly gaming, values-driven entertainment, online censorship, Section 230 debates, platform transparency, tech industry accountability, and the future of Christian content in the digital marketplace. Are major tech platforms like Google and TikTok suppressing Christian voices, or is this a broader issue of algorithmic moderation and marketplace competition? This compelling conversation explores religious liberty, digital rights, culture and technology, and the intersection of faith and Silicon Valley in today's rapidly evolving online ecosystem.

In her public podcast, which you can also find on pretty much all podcast platforms, Laurie has been reading and discussing Leo Strauss's book Persecution and the Art of Writing, and this is the last video on the chapter in the book by the same name. Next time, she'll discuss Strauss's next chapter, on Maimonides' esoteric writing. … More Historicism’s Deadly Effect on Thinking (Persecution and the Art of Writing, 4)

A practitioner in China recounts his 27-year cultivation journey, and his unwavering faith in Dafa despite intense persecution by the Chinese Communist Party. He has been detained, tortured, and has endured lengthy hunger strikes; and has remained committed to validating the {{Fa}} and countering the persecution. Through his actions and righteous thoughts, he has witnessed the power of Falun Dafa and the transformation of his environment. This and other experience-sharing on the Minghui website.Original Articles:1. Standing Up for Dafa and Countering the Persecution2. My Business Partner Saw the Goodness of Dafa Through My Conduct3. The Attachments Behind “Pulling Rank” To provide feedback on this podcast, please email us at feedback@minghuiradio.org

In this episode I am once again joined by Victor Shiryaev a teacher of Buddhist and modern meditation and somatic practices. Victor traces a contemplative history of modern Russia from the days of the esotericism and Orientalism of the Russian Empire, through the religious restrictions of the Soviet Union, the New Age spiritual fervour of the 1990s, and the Westernisation of recent times. Victor considers whether Russia was a mission field for spiritual groups such as the Diamond Way, details the different Buddhist sects active in the country, describes how meditation is viewed in Russian culture today, and reflects on the relationship between globalist Buddhist sects and heritage Buddhist groups of the region. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep350-contemplative-history-of-modern-russia-victor-shiryaev-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'.
 … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - Why a contemplative history of modern Russia? 05:49 - Russian interest in the East and esotericism 07:54 - Buddhist regions of Russia 08:39 - Catherine the Great and empire 10:08 - Persecution of religion under the Soviet Union 11:14 - New Age and spiritual revival in the 1990s 15:22 - Current scene 16:30 - Westernised spirituality in Russia 21:58 - The self publishing movement 23:32 - How the scene became Westernised 27:12 - Shambala and post-Soviet Russia as a mission field 36:21 - Tibetan Buddhism in Russia today 39:40 - Other Buddhist and mindfulness groups in Russia 41:43 - Vipassana and the lack of a retreat scene 45:41 - Heritage Buddhists vs the new Buddhists 56:21 - Russian esotericism and the Soviet Union 01:04:41 - How is meditation viewed in Russia today? 01:12:06 - Modern mindfulness in Russia 01:13:00 - Russian Orthodox Christianity and the future of Buddhism in Russia Previous episode with Victor Shiryaev: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shiryaev To find out more about Victor Shiryaev, visit: - https://victorshiryaev.co/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James

Send a text In this episode of BuddyWalk with Jesus, we slow down over Matthew 5:10: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus isn't promoting paranoia, a victim mindset, or picking fights—He's preparing apprentices for what happens when Kingdom life collides with the values of the world. We explore what “persecuted” means in the original language, why Jesus qualifies it as suffering for righteousness (not for being difficult), and why He repeats the same promise as the first Beatitude: “theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” This episode helps you discern persecution versus consequences, resist bitterness or performative martyrdom, and remain rooted in the present-tense reality of God's Kingdom—even when faithfulness costs you. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

For more than a decade, Matt Rhodes has been a church planter in unreached Muslim countries. In that time, he’s risked illness, difficult living conditions, and physical danger. He’s also stood with new believers who were attacked for their faith in Jesus. Scripture tells Christians to expect trials in life. For missionaries, knowing God’s good purpose for pain is essential for enduring harsh conditions on the field. Step into the world of those who boldly share the Gospel where they have been sent.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

– World News Briefing– Persecution in China– People from All Walks of Life in China Thank Master Li Hongzhi – Falun Dafa Practitioners in South Africa Thank Master and Wish Him Happy Chinese New Year – Elected Officials in the US and the UK Heap Praise and Honor Upon Shen Yun Performing Arts To provide feedback on this podcast, please email us at feedback@minghuiradio.org

Masterpiece Podcasts: Collection of Chinese Classic Novels

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Those who suffer for Christ will receive the Holy Spirit's power and rest at their greatest hour of need.

What does it take to rule as an equal in a man's world? How did a quiet, devout queen help reshape Britain's monarchy forever?All this month, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb is exploring the Restoration monarchs. In this episode, she focuses on Queen Mary II, England's first and only joint sovereign, who ruled alongside her husband William of Orange. Far from being a passive partner, Mary was politically astute, deeply devout, and a formidable cultural influence, playing a pivotal role in forging Britain's constitutional monarchy. Dr Holly Marsden joins Suzannah to examine Mary II's reign and why her story still resonates in the histories of Britain, gender, and political revolution.MORE:William III & the Persecution of SodomitesListen on AppleListen on SpotifyThe Massacre of GlencoeListen on AppleListen on SpotifyPresented by Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. The researcher is Max Wintle, audio editor is Amy Haddow and the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Not Just the Tudors is a History Hit podcastSign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Good people aren't exempt from violence. We aren't insulated. But neither are we intimidated. In Matthew 10:28, Jesus says, “Do...

Sign up for the Heartland Experience trip: https://israelguys.link/israel-trip-86ewkwta8 Did Tucker Carlson really "visit" Israel — or did he just fly into the VIP terminal on his private plane for a few hours, and then leave? After claiming he was detained and harassed by Israeli security, Israeli officials strongly denied the allegations, saying he was asked only routine questions in a VIP lounge. On today's podcast, the guys break down Tucker's latest interview with an Arab Christian from Bethlehem. In a world full of lies and propaganda, it's important to hear from Jews and Christians who are boots on the ground in the Holy Land. At the same time, the Middle East may be approaching a far more serious moment. Reports indicate the United States is conducting the largest military buildup in the region since 2003, with aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and strike capabilities moving into position amid renewed Iran tensions. Israel's Home Front Command has reportedly been instructed to prepare for war, while diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes.

In this message, we will look at one of the most pivotal chapters in Matthew, where Jesus' ministry will experience the peak of its persecution thus far--- all over a controversy surrounding the Sabbath. In doing so, we will consider the dangers of legalism, and beauty of Jesus' ministry of grace and mercy.   Scripture: Matthew 12:1-21

"Roger Williams' most important work on liberty of conscience caused a sensation when first published in London in 1644 and has had an enduring impact in the debate on that subject ever since. It was entitled “The Bloudy Tenent of Persecution, for Cause of Conscience, Discussed."

Cullan, Justin and special Guest Eli read and talk about persecution

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/his-hop-radio-podcast--3366700/support. Stay Connected with His Hop Radio Download the His Hop Radio App today (available on all major platforms).

Rogers for America with Lt. Steve Rogers – Christians, Jews, and Muslims are under attack for their belief in God. These attacks are not just taking place in Nigeria; they are also taking place in many countries, including the United States. Senator Cruz said that since 2009, over 50,000 Christians in Nigeria have been massacred, and over 20,000 churches and Christian schools have been...

This week, we finish our Preaching and Persecution series in Acts. In Acts 8, we see Philip follow the leading of the Holy Spirit to share the gospel with the Ethiopian Eunuch in the desert, and the Ethiopian Eunuch responds in baptism. Pastor Eric shares three points as we work through the text: 1) Radical Obedience 2) Gospel Telling 3) An Outward Response

Pastor Ben Preaches from the book of Revelation. Find out more at clcscranton.org

Reading from Acts 14, Andrew and Robert talk about the story of Paul and Barnabas preaching in some cities and having to deal with opposition. The opposition riled up the people to the point of stoning!Are there any parallels in these current times? What lessons can we learn from the experience of the early church??Send a textSupport the showQuestions or Comments? Please reach out to us through email at questions@truewisdom.info or on Twitter/X @truewisdom_podGive instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. Proverbs 9:9-10The Key Principles of Effective Bible Study is a resource that we reference in many of our episodes. It is explained in a series of podcasts found at Rightly Divide.God's Precious Word is a condensed, 9-part series, based on the same document. Other Resources:— e-Sword Bible Software— MySword Bible Software— Blue Letter Bible Study Site— "Knowing the Bible" Bible Maps We pray that these resources will be very helpful to you in your Bible Studies overall.

Dear RLR Listeners,Please find RLR 201 attached, where we cover  - Persecution of the Faithful throughout the Ages- Religious Liberty: A Double-Edged Sword - The US 250th Birthday - The Middle East on a Knife's Edge - UFO Disclosure and the Christian Faith God bless you.AJA+1 305 450 8550 aalfano@lawalfano.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/his-hop-radio-podcast--3366700/support. Stay Connected with His Hop Radio Download the His Hop Radio App today (available on all major platforms).

– World News Briefing– Persecution in China– Religious Freedom Summit Attendees Learn About Falun Dafa – People Learn About Falun Dafa at Popular Festival in New Zealand – European and American Theatergoers Inspired by Shen Yun To provide feedback on this podcast, please email us at feedback@minghuiradio.org

SPONSOR! Rumble WALLET! Download Rumble Wallet now and step away from the big banks — for good! https://rumblewallet.onelink.me/bJsX/vivafrei

FULL EPISODE: https://taking-the-land.supercast.com/subscriber_v2/episodes/952752A church kid chases his drug-dealing father, joins a gang to prove he's a “man,” and ends up running from the law. Then a mother's fasting, a stepdad's mercy, and a pastor's direct challenge collide into a real conversion.PREMIUM SUBSCRIPTION for WORLD EVANGELISM:•NO ADS, Early releases, Full-Length Testimony Tuesdays• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3/month on Supercast⁠: https://taking-the-land.supercast.com/⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3.99/month on Spotify⁠: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/taking-the-land/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠Subscribe for only $4.99/month on Apple Podcasts⁠: https://apple.co/4owjo5ZIn this Testimony Tuesday episode of Taking the Land, Pastor Joe Albert Hernandez shares how God pulled him out of drugs, jail, and a fatherless identity crisis, and then launched him into pioneering in Detroit, a hard season in Baltimore, and finally missionary work in Cambodia.PERRY DOMINGUEZ ON TESTIMONY TUESDAY: https://youtu.be/BcSwXAdpgwAYou'll also hear what life is like in Cambodia (97% Buddhist), why it's unusually open to missionaries, what persecution looks like for young converts, and why the next chapter is raising indigenous workers to take the land.If you're a prodigal, a pastor in a hard season, or someone sensing a call to the nations, this one will grab you by the collar in the best way.Chapters00:00 In Cambodia: Why This Nation Is Wide Open04:49 Church Kid to Gang Life10:20 Jail, Running, and the Prodigal Realization14:41 A Mother's Fast and a Stepdad's Mercy19:10 Spiritual Fatherhood and Real Discipleship23:41 True Conversion: Changed DesiresPREMIUM ONLY:38:52 “Yes or No?” — The Call to Preach49:56 Detroit, Baltimore, and Hard Lessons55:49 The Cambodia Burden Returns1:01:44 Raising Indigenous Workers1:09:30 Persecution, Revelation, and Prayer PointsShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at:• Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b• Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369v

BJU equips students to impact the world as they live for truth, seize opportunities and embrace life experiences. Standing on the authority of the Bible, BJU shapes heads, hearts and backbones for Christ by equipping students to lead lives of integrity and influence others for God's glory. www.bju.edu

Here is part two of Church History 101! Tonight we look at the Gnostics, Polycarp, and everyone's favorite heretic, Marcion! 

In this episode, we explore the life of St. Cyprian, a prominent figure in 3rd-century Carthage who became a bishop after a dramatic conversion and faced the Roman Empire's persecution of Christians. We discuss his influential work, 'On the Unity of the Church,' which argues for the indivisible nature of the church and remains a foundational text in Christian theology.Chapters00:00 Introduction to St. Cyprian01:41 Early Life and Conversion03:02 Persecution and the Lapsed06:33 On the Unity of the Church10:25 The Role of Bishops15:13 Persecution and Martyrdom

The blueprint for Christian Character development that the Apostle Peter gives us in 2 Peter chapter 1 focuses us on a profound series of steps we need to take in order to be more Christlike. Based upon God's power and promises, Peter lays out for us the blueprint for a ladder of Christian character development. Peter has taught us that each rung of this ladder is very important to our success in climbing onto the next rung up. In the last four parts of this series, we have focused on one rung of this ladder at a time. We worked on making the connections between what our foundation is and how each step makes us more like Jesus. Step 5 on the ladder Christian perseverance is the fifth step following faith, moral excellence, knowledge and self‑control. Perseverance means “cheerful, hopeful endurance”—an active, conscious decision to “stay under” the weight of trials with constancy. It is not drudgery. It is a spiritually energized commitment to keep moving forward. Perseverance is essential because self‑control can’t survive without it. Scripture shows that perseverance grows out of justification, peace with God, and His grace (Romans 5), and is modeled perfectly by Jesus in his endurance of the torturous cross experience (Hebrews 12). Developing endurance Christians develop perseverance through three major arenas: trials, persecution and loyalty testing. Trials cultivate endurance that leads to maturity, as seen in James' teaching and in real-life examples of believers who endure suffering with faith. Persecution requires principled perseverance, following Jesus' example of non-retaliation and trusting God's power when feeling afflicted or targeted. Loyalty testing cultivates perseverance that glorifies God in every circumstance, choosing prayer, spiritual perspective, and Christlike responses over fleshly reactions. Perseverance strengthens what has already been built—faith, moral excellence, knowledge and self‑control—while enabling continued spiritual growth. Ultimately, perseverance is the allegiance of our energy to God's will, empowered by His spirit, inspired by Jesus' sacrifice, and necessary to receive the promised reward. It keeps us from giving up, restores our confidence and helps us “run and not grow weary” as we walk in Christ's footsteps.  Key Takeaways Perseverance = cheerful, hopeful endurance, not mere survival. Self‑control collapses without perseverance; endurance keeps spiritual progress intact. Jesus is the model of joyful endurance, inspiring us not to lose heart. Trials develop maturity, producing endurance that leads to completeness. Persecution requires principled perseverance, following Jesus' example of never retaliating. Loyalty to God is proven through endurance, glorifying Him in every circumstance. 

by Elder Chris McCool, Pastor (preached on February 8, 2026) In this sermon, we continue our study of the theology of government in our ongoing exposition of the Book of Romans. As we did in the previous sermon, we begin in Romans 13:1 and explore the idea of the separation that ought to exist between...

Revelation 2:8-11 - Speaker: Jotham Manoranjan - This week, we are exploring Jesus's letter to the Church of Smyrna, the second of the seven churches in Revelation 2-3. The Christians in Smyrna were facing persecution for their faith in Jesus, and their troubles were about to intensify. What words of comfort and encouragement does Jesus have for a church facing poverty, imprisonment, and even death? And what might we be able to learn from this? This passage reveals two important truths about who Jesus is, which embolden Christians in all ages to not fear, but to be faithful, even unto death. For us, let's take heed of the repeated words in each of these seven letters: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Living faithfully in a culture hostile to Christ isn't easy—just ask the church in Pergamum (a.k.a. "Satan's City"). We'll discover that the greatest danger to the church isn't always external persecution, but internal compromise. But Jesus promises faithfulness will be rewarded. It will be worth it all.If we are going to remain faithful in Satan's city, there are three realities we cannot ignore...1) The pressure we face2) The danger we harbor3) The reward we receiveText: Revelation 2:12-17

This week, we continue our series in Acts, Preaching and Persecution. In Acts 8, we see Philip's faithfulness to share the gospel in Samaria, the apostles' prayer over the new believers, and their rebuke of Simon the magician's heart posture. Pastor Eric shares four points as we work through the text: 1) The Elephant in the Room 2) The First Cross-Cultural Mission Trip 3) The Gift of the Holy Spirit 4) The Motives of the Heart

What if your problems aren't crushing you but growing you? In this message, Lead Pastor Jamie Nunnally teaches us how to face suffering as he shares about Jesus's letter to the church in Smyrna.Smyrna had been destroyed in 600 BC and rebuilt by Alexander the Great around 300 BC. When this letter was written, Smyrna was the center of emperor worship in Asia Minor. Christians were seen as suspicious, unpatriotic, and disruptive because they refused to join civic rituals. Persecution wasn't occasional—it was daily life. Believers faced exclusion, job loss, harassment, slander, and even death.Revelation 2:8–9 (NLT)Suffering (thlipsis) means "affliction, tribulation, persecution"—literally, "crushing pressure." Jesus says, "I know your poverty"—extreme poverty in a rich city, caused by persecution.One of Smyrna's main exports was myrrh, a fragrant oil made by crushing the myrrh tree. In the same way, Christians were being crushed by persecution and poverty.Citizens were expected to burn incense before Caesar's image and say, "Caesar is Lord." Jesus also mentions a group claiming to be Jews who were actively persecuting Christians.Revelation 2:10 (NLT)"Ten" symbolizes completeness—their suffering would be limited and measured. Jesus promises a "crown of life": be faithful unto death and receive the reward.Revelation 2:11; 20:14–15The second death—the Lake of Fire—is the final judgment for the devil, demons, and those who reject Jesus. Christians die once and live twice. Unbelievers live once and die twice.What does this mean for us?1. God sees your suffering.We all face "thlipsis"—crushing pressure. Suffering isn't a sign of God's absence but the promise of His nearness.2 Corinthians 4:17–18 reminds us our present troubles are small and temporary, producing eternal glory. If you navigate suffering with God, temporary pain becomes eternal reward.2. Don't measure spiritual success by worldly wealth.Jesus called Smyrna "rich." Heaven measures wealth differently.Luke 12:15—life isn't measured by what you own.1 Timothy 6:18–19—be rich in good works.The world counts possessions; Heaven counts faithfulness.3. Sometimes idolatry isn't a god, but a government.Smyrna's temptation was emperor worship. Christians should be informed and involved, but the political process isn't the world's savior. Make political opinions subject to God's Word.4. Real faith leads to resolute faithfulness.Talent gets applause; faithfulness gets a crown (1 Peter 1:7).Faith that only works when life works isn't real faith.When suffering comes, it may not stop immediately. But God fills you with His love, peace, joy, and presence. What was meant to destroy you loses its power to define you.John 16:33—In this world you will have trials, but take heart; Jesus has overcome the world.Jesus is the solution to your suffering. He is faithful to you. Remain faithful to Him, and you will receive the crown of life.Will you be faithful like the believers in Smyrna?

This week, Pastor Jeff continues a series in the book of Acts named ACTS: The Mission of God is Our Mission. The next message in the series is based in Acts 14:1-28 and is entitled "Persecution and Perseverance." The main idea of the sermon is: As the gospel moves into the Gentile world, Paul and Barnabas proclaim the gospel and shepherd the souls of the saints while persevering through persecution.———————— Connect with Us: Website: parkwoodonline.org Facebook: facebook.com/parkwoodonline Instagram: instagram.com/parkwoodonlineCheck out more resources and sermons online at: parkwoodonline.org

Today I want to talk about how we are going to handle the coming persecution against Christians. Someone close to me encountered persecution last week and I have been hearing hints of it in other places. This is not something to put off, but to prepare for so you will be able to stand strong. A discussion of persecuted ones who went before us. What I believe the Word shows us happens to martyrs, the ultimate persecution, and a discussion of grief and sorrow and how the Lord will carry that for you - there will be much grief and much loss and sorrow in what is coming. Are you ready? Illustration by RJPP on Pixabay, used with permission.

Pastor Taylor continues last week's message with this conversation on a Persecution Complex.If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to share it with someone you know!follow us on instagram @reallifechurchwa 26201 180th Ave. SE Covington, WA 98042 Sundays @ 8:30 | 10 | 11:30

– World News Briefing– Persecution in China– Falun Dafa Practitioners in the Netherlands Raise Awareness of the Persecution Year Round – Audiences in Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland, UK, and the US Appreciate Shen Yun for Blessings and Benefits – Romania: Benefiting from Reading Zhuan Falun To provide feedback on this podcast, please email us at feedback@minghuiradio.org

On this episode of Pastors Talk, Mark and Jonathan talk to Matt Rhodes on his new book.

In this episode, Matt Rhodes discusses how to reorient our thinking about persecution in global missions. Matt Rhodes grew up in San Diego, California, and has lived in North Africa since 2011. He and his wife, Kim, serve as part of a church-planting team to a previously unengaged people group. He is also the author of 'Persecution in Missions: A Practical Theology' from Crossway. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Read the full transcript of this episode.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ❖ Listen to “The Problem with Modern Missions" with Matt Rhodes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠YouTube⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show.

Send us a textWe live our lives at the intersection of what we can control and what we can't.  We can control our attitude, thoughts, and the choices we make each day- but we cannot control the attitudes, actions, or decisions of others.  On this edition of Finish Strong, we explore the wisdom of knowing when to “hold on” and when to “let go!”Support the showFearless Faith Websiteffaith.orgTo leave a review - Open Finish Strong on the Apple Podcast app and scroll down until you see "Ratings & Reviews". There will be a link to click so that you can "Write A Review"FacebookYouTubeInstagram

Blessed Are — Bruises to Blessings Description: In this message from the Blessed Are series, Pastor Eric addresses a bruised and grieving moment in our nation and calls the church to see suffering through the lens of Jesus' words: “Blessed are you…” Drawing from the Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount, he explains that blessing is not the absence of pain but the presence of God's redeeming purpose within it. Pastor Eric reflects on persecution, reviling, and being maligned for righteousness' sake, showing how cultural hostility toward biblical convictions is not new—and should not surprise believers. He emphasizes that following Christ means obedience to God over approval from men, even when that obedience leads to suffering, misunderstanding, or loss. The message presses the church to resist fear, self-censorship, and compromise, and instead walk faithfully as ambassadors of Christ. At the heart of the sermon is Isaiah 52–53, where the first and greatest bruise to blessing is revealed. Jesus Christ was wounded, bruised, rejected, and slain for our transgressions so that peace with God could be offered freely to sinners. Pastor Eric shows that Christ's suffering was purposeful, voluntary, and victorious—and that all who trust Him receive forgiveness, new life, and eternal hope. From Acts, 1 Peter, 2 Timothy, 2 Corinthians, and Hebrews 11, the message broadens to include both persecution and everyday hardship. Whether suffering comes through public hostility, personal loss, disability, sickness, or injustice, God redeems it for His glory when we keep an eternal perspective. Bruises do not have the final word—blessings do. Key Scriptures (NKJV): Matthew 5:3–12; Isaiah 52:13–53:12; Acts 5:29–42; 1 Peter 4:12–16; 2 Timothy 3:12; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18; Hebrews 11:35–40. Highlights: Why Jesus calls the persecuted blessed, not defeated. Biblical conviction vs. political labeling: living as a biblicist. Christ's bruising as the ultimate path to blessing (Isaiah 53). Peace with God purchased through the suffering of Jesus. Obeying God rather than men when faith is costly. Persecution in many forms: slander, exclusion, loss, hardship. Keeping an eternal perspective when life wounds deeply. The call to leave a legacy of faithfulness, not fear. Next Steps: Ask God to help you see your current bruises through an eternal lens. Thank Him for the suffering of Christ that secured your salvation. Pray for courage to live faithfully without compromise, and for grace to respond to opposition with truth, love, and endurance. Choose this week to rejoice—not in the pain—but in the promise that God is turning bruises into blessings for His glory.

H.W. Brands describes how following Poland's invasion, Lindbergh utilizes his fame to broadcast radio speeches opposing intervention, influenced by his father's WWI persecution and skepticism of British imperial motives.

Title: Preaching and Persecution Preacher: Mark Dever Series: The Church Begins Passage: Acts 3:1-4:37

In this China Fahui experience sharing, an elderly practitioner redressed the city, Public Security Bureaus, and prison authorities, while clarifying the truth about their illegal actions in the death of her imprisoned husband.Original Articles:1. China Fahui | Seeking Redress for My Imprisoned Husband and Clarifying the Truth About the Persecution (Part 2) To provide feedback on this podcast, please email us at feedback@minghuiradio.org

1. Life in Cuba Before and After the Revolution At first, many Cubans—including Sonia’s family—believed Fidel Castro would bring hope and equality. Very quickly, Castro imposed strict control, destroyed economic freedom, and made the entire population equally poor. 2. The Reality of Communist Cuba Universal poverty: Everyone was paid the same and had almost nothing—food shortages, basic needs unmet. State surveillance: Every neighborhood had assigned informants who monitored households and reported any anti‑government sentiment. Restrictions on daily life: Cubans were barred from renting boats, traveling, or accessing certain services, even if they had citizenship elsewhere. 3. Persecution and Indoctrination Sonia witnessed the regime executing and imprisoning dissenters. Castro used propaganda to turn children against their families, encouraging them to report relatives critical of the government. Schools were forced to teach pro‑communist, pro‑Castro ideology. 4. Family Resistance Sonia’s mother (a teacher) was ordered to teach communist doctrine. Rather than comply, she pretended to have a mental breakdown so she could be removed from teaching, since quitting was illegal. Sonia herself resisted the regime and was repeatedly detained, imprisoned for days, and disappeared without her family knowing her whereabouts. 5. Life After Leaving Cuba Sonia left in 1962 but returned over the years with suitcases of medicine, food, clothing, and household essentials—items extremely scarce in Cuba. She often left behind even her own clothes because relatives in Cuba lacked basics like underwear and bedsheets. 6. The Illusion Presented to Foreign Visitors Tourists and foreign politicians were only shown “model” schools, hospitals, and neighborhoods. This created a false image of prosperity, hiding the suffering of everyday Cubans who lived in extreme poverty. 7. Misconceptions About Socialism and Communism The conversation highlights how younger Americans often romanticize socialism without understanding its authoritarian outcomes. It emphasizes that socialist regimes destroy incentive, suppress faith, and strip away basic freedoms. The leaders of these systems live in luxury while the people remain impoverished. 8. The Human Cost Sonia stresses that the worst suffering was the inability of families to secure food and basic necessities for their children. Many Cubans survive by drinking sugar water to feel full. Average income was described as around $30 per month, making survival nearly impossible. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.