Podcasts about persecutors

Nik Ripken and his wife, Ruth, spent decades sitting down with hundreds of persecuted Christians in restricted nations and hostile areas around the world. They didn't go to instruct these bold believers. They went to learn from them. The lessons they learned were published in The Insanity of God, Nik's book, and now he and Ruth have created a video series called Insanity Unleashed. In this series, they share lessons from believers in persecution to help Christians everywhere know how to live as sheep among wolves (Matthew 10:16). The lessons come from more than 650 interviews with persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries. Listen this week to hear stories from Nik and Ruth about their travels and what they've learned from persecuted Christians. They'll share how meeting believers in other countries gave them a better understanding of the Biblical truth that we are all part of one global Body of Christ. Nik and Ruth have been humbled by the fervent prayers of brothers and sisters around the world as they pray for Christians in free nations. Nik will explain how this video series has the aim of raising up evangelists and church planters who will go to the unreached, rather than only pastors and teachers who are trained to minister to those who've already heard the gospel. “[Many American seminaries and Bible colleges] train you up to be sheep among sheep,” Nik says. “We are teaching [Christians] how to be sheep among wolves.” Ruth and Nik also share advice on succeeding in the marathon of ministry, including the importance of daily time in God's Word and memorizing scripture—just as our persecuted family does as they prepare for persecution. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as providing free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Leadership is a word that has become completely bastardized in modern culture. Everywhere you turn, someone is hyping you up on why you need to become a better leader, the benefits of leading versus following, and how exactly you should do it. But what if I told you, it's not the tactics that make you a leader but the mindsets that spell the difference. My good friend, brother, and leadership coach, Kipp Sorensen, joins me today to talk about what it really means to lead in a world where every man thinks they're leading well. We address the two types of destructive leaders, the “BAR” acronym (behavior, actions, results) and which to focus on, how 83% of people in the workforce view their position in the company (and what you can do about it), why a “compensation” package is about more than just money, and the do's and don't's of effective leadership. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Business Talk   01:48 - Exploring Leadership Challenges   04:30 - How Authority Changes People   06:18 - Persecutors vs. Rescuers in Leadership   10:26 - Stanford Prison Experiment Insights   13:07 - Balancing Motivation and Honesty   17:19 - Becoming a Leader-Coach   21:41 - The Mindset of Great Leadership   23:21 - Applying Leadership at Home   29:49 - Defining the Leader-Coach Role   36:31 - Balancing Accountability and Empathy   41:29 - Focusing on Results, Not Behaviors   49:54 - Ownership and Choice in Leadership   56:00 - Handling Limited Resources   01:02:09 - Leading Family vs. Employees   01:09:20 - Closing and Kipp's Contact Info Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

God's Grace Transforms and Empowers Your Life God's grace can change your life! Pastor Lawson Perdue shares how Paul went from hurting Christians to preaching about Jesus. In Galatians 1, […] The post The Grace Advantage Part 3: From Persecutor to Preacher appeared first on Charis Christian Center.

In a community-based culture like Afghanistan, it's difficult to hide one's faith. When an Afghan commits to following Christ, it's not long until those around him or her notice a difference. This creates an opportunity for gospel witness. Or for Christian persecution. Author John Weaver, long-time gospel worker in Afghanistan, joins VOM Radio this week to update listeners on that nation and how Christians are faring since the Taliban retook control of the government in 2021. John explains how a new Christian's family and tribal background often influence what type of persecution they face, and how their persecutors may come from multiple levels: their own family members, tribal leaders and/or the Taliban government. Despite these challenges for believers, ministry, evangelism and discipleship are still happening in Afghanistan—and among Afghans all around the world. Through careful, prayerful conversations Afghan Christians are planting gospel seeds, always aware that every person they share with could become their brother in Christ, or their persecutor. Pray Afghan Christians have wisdom and discernment about these conversations and whom they can trust to share their love for Jesus. You can learn about John Weaver's work in Afghanistan by reading his books, Inside Afghanistan and A Flame on the Front Line. Listen for ways you can pray specifically for Afghan Christians and their persecutors. Hear John Weaver's previous conversations with VOM Radio by visiting www.vomradio.net/weaver. John also wrote a book about meeting his wife in Afghanistan and their Afghan Christian wedding in Najiba: A Love Story From Afghanistan. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

After three churches were burned and 5,000 Christian books destroyed in a nation where Christians are persecuted, the local pastor's response was unexpected. “They burned it. That means we are going to have new pastors!” he said. “Now, will you send us more books?” Dr. Gary Seevers, President of Global University, leads a worldwide ministry that offers training focused on evangelism, discipleship, graduate and doctoral study programs, serving more than 3,000,000 people worldwide in 140 languages. Included in those numbers are persecuted pastors and other Christians in restricted nations and hostile areas. Sometimes instruction must be kept secret in places where persecution comes from the government, radical groups or even a Christian's own family members. Seevers says the goal of GU is not only book knowledge, but the ability to use that knowledge in practical ministry. A vital part of the coursework involves students taking a principle from the course and applying it within their community to serve the church and spread the gospel. Global University students and graduates have been martyred for their ministry work, standing firm in their faith in Christ despite threats and violence. Persecution has accelerated the growth of the church globally and will continue to do so, Dr. Seevers says. Pray for the ministry of Global University to continue to train and serve pastors and Christian leaders worldwide and for Christians persecuted for their faith to be bold witnesses who reach their communities—and even their persecutors—for Jesus. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Send us a textFrom Saul to Paul — When God Redefines Your StoryThe remarkable transformation of Saul into Paul remains one of the greatest testimonies of divine redemption in all of Scripture. In today's powerful message, we explore how a man once known for violently persecuting Christians—a man who stood approvingly at the stoning of Stephen—became the most influential apostle in Christian history and the author of thirteen New Testament books.What does it mean when your history doesn't match your destiny? Saul's background was impressive: a Roman citizen, a Hebrew of Hebrews from the tribe of Benjamin, multilingual, and highly educated under the renowned teacher Gamaliel. Yet, despite all these advantages, Saul was spiritually blind—committed to eradicating the very faith he would one day passionately defend.The dramatic encounter on the Damascus Road didn't simply change Saul's name—it completely transformed his mission, his identity, and his legacy. Through this story, we are reminded that God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called. No matter your past, your failures, or the labels placed upon you by others, God's mercy is greater.We also draw sobering comparisons to today's climate, where Christians in many parts of the world face fierce opposition—not always through violence, but through cultural pressure, legal battles, and societal rejection. As Stephen kept his gaze fixed on Jesus amid persecution, we are called to stand firm, even when the stones of public opinion and policy come flying.This episode also challenges the Western Church's temptation toward comfort, comparing it with the underground and persecuted Church worldwide. Many believers gather in secret, risking their lives for a glimpse of the Word of God. Their boldness and faith remind us that the true Kingdom of God advances not through buildings or wealth, but through steadfast, courageous devotion.The transformation of Saul to Paul teaches us a vital truth:Your past does not disqualify you. It prepares you.What the world labels as broken, God sees as ready. What others reject, God redeems for His glory.

Send us a text! (add your email to get a response)Have you ever noticed a never-ending cycle of drama amongst your family or friend group? In this episode, we talk about how the Drama Triangle might be the hidden pattern keeping your relationships stuck in painful cycles. Whether you're supporting a loved one with mental illness or navigating difficult family dynamics, this pattern will keep you trapped in the pain instead of solving it.Stephen Karpman's Drama Triangle describes three roles that create and sustain relationship dysfunction: the Victim (feeling helpless and powerless), the Persecutor (critical and blaming), and the Rescuer (rushing to fix problems). What makes this pattern so challenging is how people shift between these roles, maintaining the pain while never actually resolving underlying issues.We identify places where we can spot the drama triangle in our own lives—from childhood experiences with divorced parents to adult relationships—showing how these patterns created confusion and heartache. These triangles often form because we're desperately trying to maintain stability, even when that stability is painful.The good news is that understanding these patterns gives you the power to break free. We explore practical ways to step outside your habitual role and ultimately break down the triangle entirely. Rather than seeing these behaviors as character flaws, we frame them as adaptations that once served a purpose but may now be limiting your growth and happiness.This conversation highlights how recognizing these patterns can help you create more authentic connections with loved ones struggling with mental health challenges. Check out KulaMind.com to learn more about our online platform designed to help you break toxic patterns and find peace while supporting someone with mental illness.Resources:https://karpmandramatriangle.com/dt_article_only.htmlSupport the showIf you have a loved one with mental or emotional problems, join KulaMind, our community and support platform. In KulaMind, work one on one with Dr. Kibby on learning how to set healthy boundaries, advocate for yourself, and support your loved one. *We only have a few spots left, so apply here if you're interested. Follow @kulamind on Instagram for science-backed insights on staying sane while loving someone emotionally explosive. For more info about this podcast, check out: www.alittlehelpforourfriends.com Follow us on Instagram: @ALittleHelpForOurFriends

Richard Wurmbrand, author of Tortured for Christ and cofounder of The Voice of the Martyrs, said, “When I was beaten on the bottom of my feet, my tongue cried out.” His words echo those of the Apostle Paul: “If one member suffers, all suffer together” (1 Corinthians 12:26). Listen this week as Jonathan Ekman, VOM's Director of Global Partnerships, shares what it means to remember those who are persecuted and to tangibly assist brothers and sisters in more than 70 countries around the world. Jonathan will talk about developing and strengthening partnerships with church groups and mission organizations to enable VOM to come alongside the body of Christ in their times of suffering. Jonathan will also talk about his own crisis management experience and lessons he's learned—lessons he now uses to bless other ministries who may face the kidnapping of a missionary or the murder of a gospel worker. Last year, VOM provided tangible help to more than 4,000,000 Christians around the world. Much of that help was delivered through partnerships with local church leaders, international mission organizations and other groups. These partnerships are a key part of VOM serving persecuted Christians—and reflect what it means to be part of the Body of Christ. Jonathan will also share specific ways you can pray. You are invited to stand with persecuted Christians by supporting the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. You can give online here. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

What does it take to go from tearing down the church to building it up? In this episode, we explore Saul's dramatic encounter with Jesus in Acts 9 and how it completely redefined his identity, purpose, and leadership. If you've ever felt unqualified, disqualified, or too flawed to lead, Paul's story is for you.  Reflection What part of your past are you allowing to disqualify you? Where might God be calling you to lead, but fear is holding you back? How would your leadership shift if you fully believed that grace has made you new? Take a moment today to sit with that. Journal. Pray. And remember: If God could transform Saul into Paul, He can surely use you.   Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!    Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

Message Us!The dramatic conversion of Saul on the Damascus road stands as one of Christianity's most remarkable transformations—a zealous persecutor of Christians who became the faith's most influential apostle. This powerful story isn't just a historical account; it reveals the anatomy of true spiritual conversion that remains relevant for every person today.Before encountering Christ, Saul (later known as Paul) was the perfect religious man by external standards—a Pharisee with impeccable Jewish credentials who believed he was serving God by hunting down followers of "the Way." His fury was so intense that Scripture describes him as "breathing threats and murder," painting him as more beast than man in his relentless pursuit. This man would travel 150 miles just to capture Christians and drag them bound to Jerusalem. By modern standards, he would be classified as nothing less than a religious terrorist.Yet God's grace reaches even the most unlikely candidates. On that dusty road, the resurrected Jesus intercepted Saul with a blinding light and a probing question: "Why are you persecuting me?" This divine encounter illustrates four essential elements of genuine conversion: revelation of Christ's resurrection, repentance from sin, spiritual resurrection from death to life, and visible results that evidence an inward transformation.The story challenges us to move beyond mere religious observation. As the speaker pointedly asks, "Being a fan of Christ, sitting in the stands watching from a distance can be fascinating, but that will not save a person." True Christianity isn't about moral improvement or religious performance—it's about moving from spiritual death to life through a personal encounter with the risen Jesus.Whether you're encountering Christianity for the first time or have attended church for decades without experiencing genuine conversion, Paul's story offers hope that no one is beyond God's redemptive reach. What better day than Easter to cross that line from death to life? The invitation stands open: come to Jesus and experience the same transforming grace that turned history's most notorious Christian-hunter into its most passionate apostle.Support the show

With a passion for serving and growing the local church, particularly in areas where it's difficult to train and raise up leaders, Dr. Michael Reeves, President of Union School of Theology (Wales), explains how UST trains pastors and leaders in the church worldwide—including pastors for churches in hostile areas and restricted nations. Listen as Dr. Reeves explains the importance of the education to equip church leaders to know God, love and adore Him and His ways, and know the gospel so they may effectively preach it. This training, and the deep knowledge of God is fosters, helps pastors withstand persecution when it comes. Dr. Reeves will also share about his own missions experience living on the border of Pakistan and Afghanistan, and the lessons he learned living in a Muslim culture and seeing how Christians were treated—and how they responded. “You become like the God you worship,” Reeves says. “When believers only have Christ—and not other substitutes for Him—it seems that they're able to taste of that joy more deeply. He'll also share thoughts on how each of us can nurture our own prayer life. Pray for believers to have a deeper knowledge of God and be inspired by the testimonies of persecuted Christians, which display beautiful evidence of the power of the gospel. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Doug Clay and Sam Brownback work in very different arenas. But both have a heart to serve Christians around the world. Doug Clay, general superintendent of the Assemblies of God - USA, shares about the genesis of the AG church and their current goal to put a church within walking distance of all humanity—including people living in hostile areas and restricted nations. “The finishing of the Great Commission is doable in our lifetime,” Clay says. Clay will share three ways to pray for your pastor and how he works to help the church equip the saints to have a biblical worldview and to endure. Seeing the church as the expansion of God's Kingdom, Doug knows it's crucial to encourage and pray for your pastor and for church leaders around the world. Sam Brownback served as United States Ambassador for International Religious Freedom during the first Trump administration. He has worked for decades to defend religious liberty in nations hostile to Christian teaching. Brownback will share from his experiences meeting with leaders of foreign nations, including one conversation that led directly to the release of a Christian pastor from prison. He'll also share how a formerly imprisoned Christian in Saudi Arabia encouraged him to continue in the work God called him to, and how raising religious freedom issues with your elected officials can be a practical way to serve persecuted brothers and sisters. Currently, Brownback is working on a book about persecution in China. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Third Part, Question 47, Articles 5 & 6;Article 5: Whether Christ's persecutors knew who He was;Article 6: Whether the sin of those who crucified Christ was most grievousPLEASE consider donating to help keep this podcast going by visiting buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief

Last week, Brother Nathan, a gospel worker in the Middle East, shared his testimony and how his gospel work in the Middle East led to his arrest. This week on VOM Radio, we'll hear more about his time in prison and how the Lord opened the prison doors for release. Listen to hear how Nathan's wife left the country—with their two young children—not knowing when or if she would see her husband again. Nathan will also share what a powerful difference it made for him to have fellow Christian believers by his side in prison. Nathan says it was such a gift to go through this suffering with other believers rather than alone and shares how one of those believers encouraged him not to let prison quench the evangelistic fire that burned inside him to share the gospel with Muslims. He also tells the story of how God revealed the exact number of days he and his friends would be in prison—and how he's seen seeds planted in prison produce gospel fruit in a very closed country since his release. Learn how you can pray specifically for Nathan and his family, as well as Christians in the Middle East, as they face persecution. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, Afghanistan, Iran, India, Nigeria, China and other nations throughout the year. The app also gives you free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Series: Transitions in the Life of SaulService: Sun PM WorshipType: SermonSpeaker: Bill Hall

Brother Nathan had a ministry sharing the gospel and praying with Muslims in the Middle East. He and other believers had been evangelizing for more than eight years. The responses were almost completely positive. Then, as he was ministering with two others last year, they ran into a very different response. Nathan and his two friends found themselves in a police office, their hands behind their backs, facing a serious charge of “heralding Christianity.” Nathan's missionary journey started long before his arrest. At 19, Nathan joined YWAM to experience short-term mission work after deciding to give his entire life to be used by the Lord—wherever He asked Nathan to go. Nathan will share how Peter's choice to step out of the boat on the water with Jesus inspired him to be all in with Christ. As a young man and zealous missionary, Nathan didn't think much about the risk of Christian persecution—until it happened. Nathan will share advice and encouragement to future missionaries and describe his missionary work each day in the Middle East. “Muslims are hungry for prayer,” Nathan shares. “They are real people with real issues who long for prayer.” Nathan had many opportunities to pray healing over Muslims and see the Lord at work. Listen as he tells the story of his arrest and what he felt when as he realized he could be facing years in prison. Nathan will also share how the Lord relieved fear and anxiety when they took their prison bread and the water and turned it into a remembrance of Christ's suffering. Since they didn't have a Bible, the scripture they knew in their heart was all they had to hold onto during their worship and prayers to the Lord in prison. Join us next week to hear more of Nathan's experience in prison and how it became their mission field for Christ! The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Reframing Mindset: A Conversation with David HigdonHave you ever noticed how most conversations about mindset feel suspiciously like Saturday Night Live's Stuart Smalley sketch—staring into the mirror, repeating, "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough..."? If affirmations were a magic wand, we'd all be living our dream lives already, right?Mindset matters, but not how most mindset coaches sell it. In a recent Creative On Purpose Live episode, David Higdon (David Higdon) joined me to poke gently at prevailing myths about mindset and affirmations. Spoiler alert: Mindset follows posture, not the other way around.Mindset as Interaction, Not Just ThinkingFor David, mindset isn't merely thinking differently—it's about interacting with reality differently. You don't become confident by declaring yourself confident; you build confidence by acknowledging where you are and taking micro-steps toward becoming who you want to be. Affirmations only stick when they're rooted in your current reality. "I am becoming confident" beats "I am confident" if confidence isn't yet your lived experience.Mindset Follows PostureI love how David aligns with my assertion—mindset follows posture. Your attitudes and actions shape your mindset more than your mindset shapes your attitudes and actions. This means doing the thing comes before being the thing. Want to become a better writer, coach, or human? Start acting like one.Mirror, Mirror…David shared a pivotal realization that reframed his entire approach to mindset. During a drive home from a band rehearsal in Jersey, he saw the New York City skyline and asked himself, "Why am I like this?" He collided with reality. By honestly identifying behaviors that held him back, David began removing the friction that stood between who he was and who he wanted to be.He calls this practice "looking in the mirror." It starts by acknowledging your part in situations that don't go your way. Instead of blaming the outside world—look inward. David calls this 'giving grace.' It doesn't mean accepting or ignoring your faults. It means forgiving your past self, appreciating the present you, and gently embracing the potential future you.Compassion and ResponsibilityEmpathy for others starts with empathy for yourself. David shared how learning to offer grace to himself made it easier to extend it to others, creating a virtuous cycle of compassion and accountability. But grace alone isn't enough; tough love has its place. Sometimes the greatest gift you can offer yourself is holding yourself accountable to a higher standard.Notice, Name, NavigateAs you know, my three-step framework is Notice, Name, Navigate. Notice what's happening as objectively as possible. Name the choices available. Navigate by doing the next right thing. David's similar approach starts with identifying impulses or triggers, noticing emotional responses, and choosing new ways to respond. Simple, but not easy. It's a practice—a habit.Victim, Persecutor, SaviorWe also explored Karpman's Drama Triangle. If you identify as a victim, you invite persecutors and saviors into your life. Conversely, by removing victimhood, you also remove the roles of persecutors and saviors. David suggested an intriguing possibility: once you've let go of the victim role, you might unconsciously step into the persecutor or savior roles instead. That's a danger worth noticing.Gratitude as a SuperpowerGratitude changes minds faster than affirmations. It's a scientifically proven superpower. Real gratitude means appreciating the challenges life hands you, not just the abundance. It's the secret sauce of becoming a better person and a better solopreneur.Final ThoughtMindset isn't something you “fix.” It's something you build, day by day, through conscious choices and intentional actions. The truth is, your mind doesn't need setting; it needs recalibrating through experience. So, start small, act intentionally, and trust the process. You'll become the person who can do what you aspire to do by consistently choosing actions aligned with that aspiration.What's one small choice you'll make today to move closer to the mindset you want to embody? Drop a comment, and let's keep the conversation going!Onward!Ready to find your compass?Join our community of thoughtful, purpose-driven solopreneurs inside the Solopreneur Success Circle. It's the perfect place to clarify your path, leverage your strengths, and build a prosperous business that funds and fits your ideal life.

The Drama Triangle is a powerful model in relation to human behaviour. In this Podcast we discuss the impact of the different styles can impact coaching dynamics. We explore how this psychological model, consisting of the roles of the Victim, Persecutor, and Rescuer - can show up in conversations and influence client and our own behavior. We also discuss practical ways as coaches to support the shift from the Drama Triangle to healthy and empowering choices.

Nik and Ruth Ripken went to Africa as missionaries. They experienced great works of God, but also great hardship and loss. Malaria almost killed them. Four Christian friends in Somalia were killed in one day. Their 16-year-old son died suddenly.  Out of their wrestling with grief and loss God gave them a new mission: meet with persecuted Christians all over the world and learn from them. For Nik, it was a very personal quest. “I don't know if Jesus is trustworthy anymore. Somali believers are dead. Our son is dead. Our dreams are dead. And we want to know, Is Jesus for the tough places?” Out of their quest Nik Ripken Ministries was born. Nik shared the lessons persecuted Christians had taught him in a book, The Insanity of God. The book eventually became a film, released shortly after this interview was recorded. Today, Nik and Ruth host their own podcast, Witness & Persecution, and have recently launched a video-based group study, Insanity Unleashed. Listen as Nik and Ruth share their stories of God calling them to missions from very different backgrounds, and the hardship and loss they experienced on the field in Africa as missionaries. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

This week Jeff and Dave are back in the studio to discuss the leading light of early fourth-century Christian rhetoric. 'No whey', you say? Yes, it's true. The guys again take a look at the North African rhetorical tradition that produced such greats of Christian apologetics as Minucius Felix, Tertullian, Cyprian of Carthage, and Arnobius of Sicca. What should we make of Lactantius' accomplishment? Is he really the crème de la crème, or merely pushed forward by inevitable social forces, not an instance of the 'great man theory'? And what about his rhetorical feats in the grisly Deaths of the Persecutors, Divine Institutes, God's Workmanship, and more? Was Pico della Mirandola correct that Lactantius "equalled Cicero, or maybe even surpassed him in eloquence"? Come along for the ride as we wrap up this two-parter on the man who was well suited to his times, interacting with the cabbage-loving Diocletian, a host of enemies of the Christian faith, and even the big guy, Constantine. And bee sure to check out Dave's free Latin lessons here: Deaths of the Persecturors Epitome of the Divine Institutes  

Do you believe the Lord brought them to us so they can hear the gospel?” The question was asked by a pastor in Aleppo, the war-torn city in Syria. Members of the Islamist group that would soon control the country were standing in front of his home, machine guns in hand. “That's a Kingdom-minded church!” says John Samara, a Christian from Syria and the founder and leader of Ananias House, a ministry reaching people with the love of Christ in Syria, the Middle East and North Africa. Samara has seen God answer prayers for revival during the last 12 years of civil war in Syria. Yet he also sees more Christian persecution coming as more Muslims come to know Jesus—and as the new regime in Syria tightens it's control over the country. While the new government—which overthrew the longstanding Assad regime late last year—publicly says they want more religious freedom and will make a place for religious minority groups, what's happening on the ground isn't matching their lofty words. “We're looking at potential genocide against Christians in Syria,” says John. The new government grew out of a group that formerly claimed allegiance to Al Qaeda and ISIS. John will also discuss his new book, The Victor's Crown of Glory, living as a persecuted Christian in the Middle East, and seeing his father deal courageously with constant interrogation and interference from the secret police. Order a copy of John's book today to read amazing stories of God at work and learn how the Spirit of God speaks through us, even in times of great fear! John spoke during The Voice of the Martyrs' I AM N Virtual Event. You can still access this powerful event online to hear stories of faith and courage in the shadow of radical Islam. Pray for our Christian brothers and sisters in Syria to stand firm in their faith amidst rising Christian persecution. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Dozens of foreign Christians have been quietly forced out of Türkiye in recent years. After moving his family to Türkiye (formerly Turkey) in 2001, Jerry Mattix served in aid ministry and as a pastor. Last month he was told he is no longer allowed to enter the country—even for short visits. Jerry and his wife grew up in missionary families with hearts for missions. During his first semester in Bible school, God grabbed Jerry's heart for the Kurdish people in Türkiye, one of the largest unreached people groups in the world. Listen to hear how Jerry and his wife started ministry together in Türkiye, and the story of Jerry's first expulsion from the country in 2013, when he was labeled a “threat to national security.” Türkiye was founded as a secular republic, but in recent years government leaders have grown more open about favoring Islam. Jerry fought his first expulsion in court, and judges ruled in his favor, allowing him to reenter the country in 2016—but not to live there. Jerry and his family planted new roots in North Cyprus. They have seen the Lord's hand at work despite their family's upheaval. Following the massive earthquake on February 6th, 2023, Jerry made repeated trips to Türkiye to partner with local pastors and lead international Christians in to serve in relief work. Listen as Jerry explains the government's decision to remove foreign Christians from Türkiye and hear how the local church has “grown legs” to carry forward the ministry as foreign workers are being forced out of the country. “We're not praying for peace and prosperity, or for Christian persecution;” Jerry says, “We are praying for the kingdom of Christ to grow and thrive—whatever it takes.” Pray for Jerry and other foreign Christians who have been kicked out of Türkiye and for believers in Türkiye to continue in the ministry God has called them to. Listen to more stories from Türkiye on VOM Radio with Joy Subasiguller, Andrew Brunson, and David Byle. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

In this episode of Beyond the Chutes: Quiet Enough to Ride, host Doug Simcox dives deep into The Empowerment Dynamic (TED) and the critical shift from the Victim Mindset to the Creator Mindset. We break down the Dreaded Drama Triangle (DDT)—how blame, shame, and guilt fuel the roles of Victim, Persecutor, and Rescuer—and explore the path to reclaiming personal power.Doug unpacks the three key roles in TED:

Today Pastor Matt Ousdahl will continue our Metamorphosis series and focus on Saul/Paul, a man who persecuted the followers of Jesus until having a personal encounter and becoming a believer himself.  After that happened and Paul began preaching, the leaders began to persecute him!  We will study how Paul's life changed after he met the resurrected Jesus.  

It's Tuesday, January 14th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Biggest persecutors of Christians worldwide Global Christian Relief has released its 2025 Red List — drawing attention to the big persecutors of Christians over the last two years. Nigeria tops the worldwide list for murders with a total of 9,814 martyrs for Jesus. India tops the worldwide list for building attacks which stands at 4,949. Mozambique comes in second for building attacks.  China tops the list for arrests and Eritrea comes in second.   Pray for Christians in these dangerous areas of the world this year and get your prayer guide at GlobalChristianRelief.org.  California fire death count at 25 The death count connected with the California fires is now at 25.  The Palisades and Eaton fires together make for the second most destructive fire in California history. Professor Char Miller appeared on AccuWeather. MILLER: “One hundred mile-an-hour gusts are recorded all over the region. Sustained winds of 60 to 70 miles. And then you've got this incredibly fast moving fire. Some estimates say something like three American football fields in a minute were incinerated.” The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reports 40,600 acres burned and 12,300 structures destroyed. The National Weather Service is predicting another windstorm affecting areas from Santa Barbara south into Los Angeles today and tomorrow. . . expecting wind gusts up to 80 miles per hour. California fire damage will cost $140 billion Accuweather now estimates the price tag for the damage caused by these California fires is between $135 and $150 billion.   The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Center for Environmental Information reports 27 separate billion dollar disasters last year — costing this country $183 billion. Three of the five worst years in U.S. recorded history, for hurricane damage, include 2024, 2022, and 2021. In terms of number of billion dollar catastrophic events, 2023 and 2024 were the worst in U.S. history. God, not “Mother Nature,” is responsible for the winds The news agencies have referred to “Mother Nature” over and over again. However, “Mother Nature” is not in control. God is sovereign over every natural disaster, absolutely in control of the winds rushing over the State of California now. Keep Psalm135:6 in mind. Whatever the Lord pleases He does, “in Heaven and on Earth, in the seas and in all deep places. He causes the vapors to ascend from the ends of the Earth. He makes lightning for the rain; He brings the wind out of His treasuries.” 5 of 12 insurance agencies pulled out of California Insurance cannot save us either.   Five out of twelve of the major insurance providers in California have pulled out of the Golden State. The government FAIR plan is also dramatically overextended, accountable for $300 billion of properties with only $200 million in surplus coverage. Fifteen insurance companies have gone bankrupt in the last three years. That's more than the previous 20 years combined. And now this. Only 2% of homes affected by hurricane flooding this year were insured.  Psalm 20:7-8 reads: “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God.  They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.” 80% of parents oppose student's gender identity kept secret A recent survey sponsored by Parents Defending Education found that 80% of American parents oppose schools helping students change their gender identity.  In addition, 74% opposed teaching elementary children about homosexuality, and 78% oppose biological males playing in female sports programs.  The organization DefendingEd.org identifies 1,143 school districts which openly state that they can or will keep a student's transgender status hidden from parents.   Interestingly, 67% of Republican parents, 53% of independent parents, and 29% of Democratic parents support reducing the size and influence of the U.S. Department of Education. And 77% of parents support a U.S. Department of Education that allows states to have more flexibility on how they run their school districts Trump's cabinet picks head to Senate Today begins confirmation hearings for Trump's cabinet picks to include Secretary of Defense nominee Pete Hegseth who will appear before the Senate Armed Forces Committee, reports NBC News. Also this week, Senate committees will conduct hearings for Attorney General nominee Pamela Bondi and Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio among others. Jimmy Carter's funeral featured song denying Heaven and Hell And finally, all five living presidents -- Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden -- attended the funeral for former President Jimmy Carter, reports the Associated Press. In addition, Vice Presidents Kamala Harris, Mike Pence, and Al Gore were there as well as Vice President-elect J.D. Vance.  The official funeral of state for former president Jimmy Carter included Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood performance of John Lennon's “Imagine there's no Heaven.”  Listen to Garth sing the open. BROOKS: “Imagine there's no Heaven It's easy if you try No Hell below us Above us, only sky “Imagine all the people Livin' for today.” Though a professing Christian, the former president made this theologically problematic statement to the Huffington Post in 2018. CARTER: “I think Jesus would encourage any love affair if it was honest and sincere and was not damaging to anyone else.  I don't see that gay marriage damages anyone else.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, January 14th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

A new MP3 sermon from Generations Radio is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Biggest persecutors of Christians in 2024 Speaker: Kevin Swanson Broadcaster: Generations Radio Event: Radio Broadcast Date: 1/14/2025 Length: 40 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Generations Radio is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Biggest persecutors of Christians in 2024 Speaker: Kevin Swanson Broadcaster: Generations Radio Event: Radio Broadcast Date: 1/14/2025 Length: 40 min.

Pastor Vic Prietto

Nagy and Hope grew up in the Middle East in families that followed Christ and encouraged them to serve God and be people of His Word. They were serving the Lord doing good work in their home country when they felt God's call to go to another county in the region: Libya. The transition was difficult and discouraging. They were forced to navigate a different community and expectations, and to learn a different Arabic dialect. With no fruit to be seen, Nagy and Hope were at times discouraged and disappointed. Yet God was working. After months of gospel work, one lady came to Hope asking questions about the gospel. Nagy and Hope were excited! They felt it was worth it to be in Libya if only one person came to Christ! Then their new friend was detained and interrogated. She cut off all contact with Hope. “It was hard,” Hope says, “but at the same time there was hope. Maybe the Lord would give us more opportunities.” The Lord did bring about more opportunities, but they didn't come without disappoints and hardship. Nagy and Hope will share more opportunities they had to disciple new believers and the obstacles they faced. When war broke out across Libya, the Lord still called them to stay, promising protection for their family and even their neighbors. God opened the hearts of many as they saw the Lord provide in their time of need. Listen as Nagy and Hope share when the Lord clearly told them their time in Libya was over and they had to leave. Please pray for Libya and for the continued ministry of gospel workers in that country. The first day of the new year marked the launch of a new, daily podcast from VOM. Extreme Devotion is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

 “We're Going to Hunt You Down to the Ends of the Earth. In Two Weeks You Will No Longer be the Hunters but the Hunted”- Steve Bannon to J6 Persecutors   Steve Bannon Discusses The "Providential" Rise Of MAGA Over The Last Four Years Julie Kelly On January 6th Prosecutorial Misconduct   Steve Bannon Discusses The "Providential" Rise Of MAGA Over The Last Four Years https://rumble.com/v66hn3g-bannon-b-block.html Bannons War Room   Julie Kelly On January 6th Prosecutorial Misconduct: “Instead Of Matthew Graves' Office Sucking It Up, Admitting That They Knowingly Made A Mistake, They Continued To Charge People” https://rumble.com/v66hpha-julie-kelly.html Bannons War Room 1.06M followers  HELP ACU SPREAD THE WORD!  Please go to Apple Podcasts and give ACU a 5 star rating. Don't let the Leftist win. Do it now! Thanks. Also Rate us on any platform you follow us on. It helps a lot. Forward this show to friends. Ways to subscribe to the American Conservative University Podcast Click here to subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click here to subscribe via RSS You can also subscribe via Stitcher FM Player Podcast Addict Tune-in Podcasts Pandora Look us up on Amazon Prime …And Many Other Podcast Aggregators and sites ACU on Twitter- https://twitter.com/AmerConU . Warning- Explicit and Violent video content.   Please help ACU by submitting your Show ideas. Email us at americanconservativeuniversity@americanconservativeuniversity.com   Endorsed Charities -------------------------------------------------------- Pre-Born! Saving babies and Souls. https://preborn.org/ OUR MISSION To glorify Jesus Christ by leading and equipping pregnancy clinics to save more babies and souls. WHAT WE DO Pre-Born! partners with life-affirming pregnancy clinics all across the nation. We are designed to strategically impact the abortion industry through the following initiatives:… -------------------------------------------------------- Help CSI Stamp Out Slavery In Sudan Join us in our effort to free over 350 slaves. Listeners to the Eric Metaxas Show will remember our annual effort to free Christians who have been enslaved for simply acknowledging Jesus Christ as their Savior. As we celebrate the birth of Christ this Christmas, join us in giving new life to brothers and sisters in Sudan who have enslaved as a result of their faith. https://csi-usa.org/metaxas   https://csi-usa.org/slavery/   Typical Aid for the Enslaved A ration of sorghum, a local nutrient-rich staple food A dairy goat A “Sack of Hope,” a survival kit containing essential items such as tarp for shelter, a cooking pan, a water canister, a mosquito net, a blanket, a handheld sickle, and fishing hooks. Release celebrations include prayer and gathering for a meal, and medical care for those in need. The CSI team provides comfort, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on while they tell their stories and begin their new lives. Thank you for your compassion  Giving the Gift of Freedom and Hope to the Enslaved South Sudanese -------------------------------------------------------- Food For the Poor https://foodforthepoor.org/ Help us serve the poorest of the poor Food For The Poor began in 1982 in Jamaica. Today, our interdenominational Christian ministry serves the poor in primarily 17 countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Thanks to our faithful donors, we are able to provide food, housing, healthcare, education, fresh water, emergency relief, micro-enterprise solutions and much more. We are proud to have fed millions of people and provided more than 15.7 billion dollars in aid. Our faith inspires us to be an organization built on compassion, and motivated by love. Our mission is to bring relief to the poorest of the poor in the countries where we serve. We strive to reflect God's unconditional love. It's a sacrificial love that embraces all people regardless of race or religion. We believe that we can show His love by serving the “least of these” on this earth as Christ challenged us to do in Matthew 25. We pray that by God's grace, and with your support, we can continue to bring relief to the suffering and hope to the hopeless.   Report on Food For the Poor by Charity Navigator https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/592174510   -------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer from ACU. We try to bring to our students and alumni the World's best Conservative thinkers. All views expressed belong solely to the author and not necessarily to ACU. In all issues and relations, we hope to follow the admonitions of Jesus Christ. While striving to expose, warn and contend with evil, we extend the love of God to all of his children. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Today The Voice of the Martyrs launched a brand-new podcast: Extreme Devotion. Six days a week, Extreme Devotion will share a Scripture, a short story from a persecuted Christian, and an application thought. It's a great way to spend a little time each day being inspired by the testimonies of our persecuted brothers and sisters. Every seventh day, the Extreme Devotion podcast will share one inspiring quote. Enjoy this very first episode of Extreme Devotion, and subscribe today via Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts

Last week we began a look back on some of the most moving moments on The Voice of the Martyrs Radio in 2024. This week, we continue to remember: A Central Asian pastor, Brother Silas, tells how quickly new believers in Jesus there expect persecution. Dr. David Kasali, founder and president of Congo Initiative, on making disciples in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as churches are targeted by Islamists and terrorist groups. As conflict in the Middle East unfolded this year, Ben Barrett, who served as a leader in VOM's ministry in Israel, including Gaza and the West Bank, was reminded that our brothers and sisters there are people God has called us to serve. Brother Joshua, a pastor in Cuba, shares the price he and his family pay to share the gospel and serve the church even in the face of risks. Brother David, whose father is a pastor in Cuba, knew from a young age there was a price to pay for following Christ. Pastor “AZ,” from Kazakhstan, says the church there grew fastest during a wave of intense persecution. Sister Sara grew up in a Muslim family in Central Asia. She shares how God drew her to stories about Jesus then called her to make a decision to follow him. Hana shares thoughts about being reunited with her father, a pastor imprisoned in Eritrea for the past 20 years. Shino and Shania, ethnic Somalis and devout Muslims, came to faith in Christ after Shania had a dream. They became bold witnesses for Christ. After hearing these brief excerpts, you'll want to listen to the entire conversations with these guests. Click the links below or listen in the VOM APP. Brother Silas, a pastor in Central Asia Dr. David Kasali, founder and president of Congo Initiative Ben Barrett Brother Joshua, a pastor in Cuba, and David, a Cuban pastor's son Pastor AZ from Kazakhstan Sister Sara, a Central Asian Christian Hana Mengisteab, daughter of pastor imprisoned in Eritrea for 20 years Shino & Shania, Somali Muslim Background Believers leading Somali Christian TV We thank the Lord for allowing VOM Radio to encourage and challenge listeners all over the world this year. Thank you for listening and praying for our persecuted family in restricted nations and hostile areas around the world! We'd love to hear from you! Let us know what conversation in 2024 most inspired your faith or equipped you to pray. You can also give online to support persecuted Christians through the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. NEW PODCAST BEGINS JANUARY 1! Subscribe now to Extreme Devotion, a short, daily devotional podcast from The Voice of the Martyrs coming in 2025. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

On January First, The Voice of the Martyrs will launch a brand-new podcast: Extreme Devotion. Six days a week, Extreme Devotion will share a Scripture, a short story from a persecuted Christian, and an application thought. It's a great way to spend a little time each day being inspired by the testimonies of our persecuted brothers and sisters. Every seventh day, the Extreme Devotion podcast will share one inspiring quote. Enjoy this trailer episode for Extreme Devotion, and subscribe today via Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts so that you'll be ready to begin on Day 1 as VOM launches the Extreme Devotion podcast on January 1. Here's the trailer episode for…Extreme Devotion.

This week, we look back on some of the most moving moments shared on The Voice of the Martyrs Radio in 2024: Aaron Miller, VOM's Vice President of International Ministry, gives a glimpse of his time with an African ministry partner and an African word that describes how VOM serves persecuted Christians. Paul Dangtoumba, leader for YWAM's work in Nigeria, shares his own story of persecution even before he was born and scars he bears today. An expert in trauma care, Brother Philip serves as a field minister in Africa, helping VOM respond to the spiritual and emotional needs of persecuted Christians. Jeff Woodke served as a gospel and humanitarian worker in Niger until terrorists took him hostage. Jeff and his wife, Els, share their experiences during Jeff's six and a half years in captivity. On a visit to China, Brother Kevin and his family were told of the Hui people who had never heard of the gospel. God called them to go to the Hui, but as the Chinese government imposed more restrictions, their missionary work in China was forcibly ended. Luke and Kate served as medical gospel workers in Myanmar but were also forced to leave. They continue, from a distance, to see God bringing forth fruit. Hearing the gospel on a TV program, Brother Job came to faith. He was boldly sharing the good news via social media when he was kidnapped and threatened by terrorists. As a child, Pastor Nouh Yattara in Mali was drawn to the gospel by a simple gift of a ballpoint pen. He heard the gospel and decades later he still shares the hope he found as a child. After hearing these brief excerpts, you'll want to listen to the entire conversations with guests from 2024. Click on the links below to listen on VOMRADIO.net or listen in the VOM APP. Aaron Miller, Vice President of International Ministry at VOM Paul Dangtoumda, leader for YWAM's work in Nigeria Brother Philip, field minister in Africa for VOM Jeff Woodke, taken hostage by Islamic extremists, and his wife, Els Brother Kevin, missionary to the Hui people in China Luke and Kate, medical gospel workers to Myanmar (Burma) Brother Job, gospel worker in North Africa Nouh Yattara, pastor in Mali We thank the Lord for allowing VOM Radio to encourage and challenge listeners all over the world this year. Thank you for faithfully listening and praying for our persecuted family in restricted nations and hostile areas around the world! We'd love to hear from you! Let us know what conversation in 2024 most inspired your faith or equipped you to pray. You can also give online to support persecuted Christians through the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. NEW PODCAST BEGINS JANUARY 1! Subscribe now to Extreme Devotion, a short, daily devotional podcast from The Voice of the Martyrs coming in 2025. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

With Prime Minister Modi's reelection, India has continued on the path to more restrictions against Christian ministry and gospel work. Christian persecution has moved from the village or community level to the national-government level under Modi's direction. Because of these changes, earlier this year The Voice of the Martyrs changed how India is classified, from hostile area to restricted nation, a place where the government is the driver of persecution against Christians. Despite increasing persecution for Christians in India, our faithful brothers and sisters there serve the Lord—no matter the circumstances. Brother Vijay, a gospel worker from India, joins VOM Radio this week to share how Indian Christians are responding to stricter anti-conversion laws and other increasing persecution. Thousands of Christian ministries have been closed and/or had bank accounts frozen, forcing persecuted Christians to develop creative ways to continue ministry. By staying the course, they demonstrate, “Our ministry is not dependent on money, but on God.” Currently, at least 11 Indian states are enforcing strict anti-conversion laws. Some of those laws carry the threat of life sentences and hefty fines. Vijay will share stories of bold pastors persisting in their ministry after experiencing imprisonment — and one even after being thrown off a moving train! With all these pressures, Brother Vijay explains the preparation to prepare pastors should they end up in prison, and how learning the Bible is the greatest tool for Christians facing trials. Pray for Christians in India that they would be encouraged and remain hopeful amidst increasing persecution. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the VOM Radio podcast or download the VOM App for your smartphone or tablet. You can also give online to support persecuted Christians through the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. COMING IN 2025: Subscribe now to Extreme Devotion, a new short, daily devotional podcast from The Voice of the Martyrs, which will begin on January 1. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

SHOW NOTES: - Head to our Start Page for all you need to begin! - Join the RECAPtains - Check out the TBR Store - Show credits FROM TODAY'S RECAP: - Romans 8:34 - Image: Gate - Article: No, ‘Saul the Persecutor' Did Not Become ‘Paul the Apostle' - Article: Forbidden Chapter of the Tanakh - Video: The Forbidden Chapter: Isaiah 53 in the Hebrew Bible BIBLE READING & LISTENING: Follow along on the Bible App, or to listen to the Bible, try Dwell! SOCIALS: The Bible Recap: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter/X | TikTok D-Group: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter/X TLC: Instagram | Facebook D-GROUP: D-Group is brought to you by the same team that brings you The Bible Recap. TBR is where we read the Bible, and D-Group is where we study the Bible. D-Group is an international network of Bible study groups that meet weekly in homes, churches, and online. Find or start one near you today! DISCLAIMER: The Bible Recap, Tara-Leigh Cobble, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact. Links to specific resources and content: This is not an endorsement of the entire website, author, organization, etc.. Their views may not represent our own.

‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Out of jealousy and feeling threatened, certain Pharisees sought to discredit the character of Jesus by spreading many such false reports about Him. Instead of responding to His words, they hoped to turn everyone away from Him. In their attempt to murder Him, He was raised higher than any other name. And to this day, gossip and bearing false witness remains the mark of those who persecute disciples of Christ who walk in the Holy Spirit. Support Rise on Fire Ministries by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/rise-on-fireRead transcript

Welcome to Episode #162 of Way of the Bible podcast. This is our second of eight episodes in our Twenty-First mini-series entitled, Sermon on the Mount Part 2. On today's episode we'll be hearing Jesus teach the second of two very difficult principles he reveals for Kingdom of Heaven living at the end of Matthew 5.The first difficulty was the prohibition against retaliating against the actions of an evil person. If struck on the cheek you were to turn the other, if you get sued and lose your tunic you are to give him your cloak as well, if asked to go one mile – go two miles, give to those who beg and finally do not refuse one who would borrow from you. These are in the moment actions in response to be confronted face to face. These are not meant for enslavement or sadistic behavior with an evil person. You will see confirmation of this notation when Jesus sent out his twelve Apostles to the lost sheep of Israel and instructed them in Matthew 10:14 and 23 – 14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town. 23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. He did not command his Apostles to remain in the towns so as to be persecuted, but to leave and go to another place. What to do about persecution is in our passage for today. More on that in a moment.To be brief, in the case of an “in your face trial of the moment,” we are to, as did Jesus, submit ourselves to the mercy and grace of God, manifest God's name to our oppressor, and pray for rescue from the trial or the grace to endure. Now to today's passage. I've entitled this episode, Love Your Enemies and Pray for Persecutors. You may, even now, think that seems strange to hear. But let's give it a few minutes and I think what Jesus is saying will begin to sink in.Matthew 5:43-48 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Fred and Karen, long-time gospel workers in Asia, share this week about the church in Brunei and the challenges they face daily to live boldly for Christ. Christians there can live comfortably—if they don't share the gospel or attempt to witness to ethnic Malay people. Ethnically, the church there is primarily made up of Chinese, Indians and other expats. It is illegal for ethnic Malay people to be present in a church, and many Christians are hesitant to speak about Christianity to a Malay person for fear of Christian persecution. With such strong repercussions for a Malay person following Christ, and for those who shared the gospel with that person, some Christians in Brunei have the mentality that the Malay will never choose Jesus. The government, which censors information through every medium, always displays Islam in an attractive light—even publishing the names of Christians or people of other faiths who convert to Islam. There are financial and other enticements for non-Muslims to convert—and for Muslims to continue following Islam. Listen as Fred and Karen share the story of a Muslim entering the house of a friend and seeing a Bible; the story illustrates the strong resistance Malay Muslims have toward anything Christian. Pray for God to move in the hearts of Malay Muslims, revealing himself in dreams and visions to them. Pray against the spirit of fear that has fallen on many within the church in Brunei. You may even want to book a plane ticket to go personally to pray on the ground in Brunei. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the VOM Radio podcast.

This week's episode is about one of the most OG transformations of all timeeeeee! A guy that was walking around dragging Christians off to jail ends up writing 2/3 of the HOLY BIBLE....How does that happen? A powerful encounter with Jesus, that's how! No story is too far gone that God can't redeem it. LINKS: AMZN link: https://www.amazon.com/Rewritten-Opportunities-Transformation-Stephanie-Bright-ebook/dp/B0D98XWJYR/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36THZVKJPL62L&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.0uZmZMWtlBQcyvMQSan3iA.ZLHOt6OuqQGQf04tuL7zE6lsK08-7Rq3_0oECcWZK_Y&dib_tag=se&keywords=rewritten+stephanie+bright&qid=1726614491&sprefix=%2Caps%2C95&sr=8-1  CGPOP LINK: https://www.christiangirlspop.com/shop/p/rewritten  LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/rewrittenmvmt  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christiangirlspop/support

Sister Sara wrestled with faith questions as she studied Christianity, Islam and other religions in a years-long quest for truth. Last week, Sara shared her struggle to understand and believe how Jesus could be God—a common stumbling block for Muslims hearing the gospel message. Listen this week to hear what happened after she received forgiveness of sin through Christ—and how you can pray for her and other Christians living and ministering in Central Asia. As soon as Sara read Matthew 28:18-19, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,” she gathered her words to tell others the gospel. Her first effort was sharing the hope of Christ with her family. Sara tells how her family responded and explains the importance of discipleship resources, written in local heart languages, to train up new Christians in the former Soviet republics of Central Asia. Sara worked to learn how to share the gospel in her own language—and then began learning to explain Jesus' love in other languages as well. “People need God, but they just didn't know it.” Sara says. It was only a short time into her outreach ministry when Sara first experienced pushback. God reminded her that Jesus faced persecution with humility and that is the model Sara tries to follow when opposition arises. Her own family's responses to her Christian faith reminded her that she couldn't save anyone herself but had to trust God to do the work, and to trust his timing. When Sara reads of historic missionaries who went to the difficult places, she asks, “Why don't we go there sooner? The harvest is plenty and ready!” Pray the Lord will raise up gospel workers and evangelists to preach the gospel in Central Asia. Pray that, as these workers face Christian persecution, they would be faithful to Jesus even in difficulty and suffering. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast.

This month we are commemorating the 10th Anniversary of The Voice of the Martyrs Radio. This week we look back on one of the most powerful conversations ever shared on VOM Radio airwaves. Sister Amber spent more than a decade in Tibet providing vocational training to local people and sharing the gospel. She felt God's call especially to work among Tibet's nomadic tribal people. Amber watched as God brought about a great ministry breakthrough: people who'd been completely closed to her message were now asking to learn more about Jesus! But just days after the breakthrough Amber experienced persecution. Chinese police came pounding on her door. Listen as she tells how the Holy Spirit strengthened and spoke to her and how God brought Amber from a place of terror to the point of expressing Christ's love, even to the men violently persecuting her. “I never felt Jesus so close,” she says. God laid on the hearts of people around the world to pray for Amber, including one who drew a picture of Amber surrounded by five policemen in a room. Months later, when Amber saw the picture, it matched exactly the setting of her interrogation! It also contained a ray of spiritual hope. Your faith will be challenged as you hear Amber's thoughts on how the New Testament speaks of the “honor” of being persecuted; she'll also give first-hand advice on how to pray for Christians in prison right now. Learn how you can pray every day for persecuted Christians like Amber who are imprisoned in hostile and restricted nations. And never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast.

Over the last decade, God has allowed VOM Radio the opportunity to bring you into fellowship with persecuted Christians and tell the stories of what God is doing around the world even amid suffering and persecution. This week we'll look back on some of the most moving moments of the first decade of VOM Radio. It was September of 2014 when The Voice of the Martyrs began releasing new VOM Radio episodes weekly. The first episode introduced listeners to members of our persecuted family in China. Gina, a gospel worker with YWAM Frontier Missions and Julian, serving with Operation Mobilization, told in 2015 how God was drawing Muslims to himself – even ISIS fighters were coming to faith in Christ! By watching the JESUS Film in his Turkmen heart language, Silas's life was forever changed. Several guests over the years have told of being imprisoned for Christ just as the founders of The Voice of the Martyrs, Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, were imprisoned for their faith. Helen Berhane, who spent many months locked in a shipping container in Eritrea, reminds us that everything—including following Jesus—will cost us. Listen to how David Byle and Petr Jasek, both imprisoned for Christ, saw God's purpose for them in prison as they shared the gospel, and how Dan Baumann was reminded that God could still change people's hearts, even in prison in Iran. You'll hear these stories of heroic faith and also stories of faith overcoming fear, like Maria praying God would remove her fear after Cuban authorities issued an arrest warrant for her husband. God has inspired thousands with the testimonies of martyrs' widows who publicly forgave their husband's killers, like Anita Smith and Pauline Ayyad. Hannelie Groenewald shares how she learned that her husband and teen-aged children had been killed by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Also Gary Witherall remembers how God ministered to him after his wife, Bonnie, was killed for her faith in Lebanon. More than seven years after his abduction, Susanna Koh still doesn't know what happened to her husband, Pastor Raymond Koh. After a season of great loss, Nik and Ruth Ripken chose to sit at the feet of persecuted Christians to learn from them about following Christ in difficulty and suffering. THANK YOU for listening to the stories of our persecuted family over the last ten years! We pray that VOM Radio will continue to build a bridge of fellowship between fellow members of the Body of Christ whether they live in free nations, hostile areas or restricted nations. What episodes most moved or inspired you during the first 10 years of VOM Radio? Share your most impactful episode. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast.

Working together, a Canadian with a vision, a businessman from Tampa, Florida, and tentmaking missionaries in Israel launched a ministry that today is making a gospel impact in more than 140 countries. Listen this week as Tim Whitehead, Executive director for Galcom International in Canada, tells the story of how Galcom started in 1989 producing solar powered radios that could be locked into specific frequencies where listeners in a given location would hear Christian broadcasts. He'll also share how Galcom has moved forward as technology advanced in the last 35 years—including helping launch more than 200 radio stations to provide gospel broadcast content in places where none previously had been available. Galcom continues toward the goal of reaching remote villages across the world to share Jesus Christ with more and more people, especially among unreached people groups (UPGs). “When they receive these radios,” Tim says, “it shows them they are not forgotten.” Listen for four barriers that can be overcome by gospel radio broadcasts, and how volunteers build thousands of radios each year for distribution all over the world. Tim will also share how Galcom and The Voice of the Martyrs started partnering together to serve Christians in Colombia and how that partnership expanded into West Africa and other parts of the globe. Join us next week for a special episode sharing highlights of the past decade as September 2024 marks the ten-year anniversary of VOM Radio. Please share how you've been encouraged and inspired by the testimonies and stories of our persecuted Christian family on VOM Radio over the past 10 years. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast.

Pastor “AZ” saw his church in Kazakhstan grow the fastest during a season of intense Christian persecution. The church began with AZ, his wife and one other believer. Two years later there were 250 believers! AZ knew that reaching Kazakh people required communicating and demonstrating the gospel in their heart language. The church also needs to be ready to assist new believers when persecution comes. AZ became a believer in 1992, just as the Soviet Union was collapsing. Soon after repenting of sin and believing in Christ for salvation, AZ experienced persecution from his family. His own experiences help him prepare church members to face persecution, which he teaches them to expect. AZ will share three things needed to prepare a church to advance the gospel no matter the cost. The biggest challenge for church planting in Kazakhstan—the 9th largest country in the world by territory—is distance. The greatest encouragement for AZ is discipling new believers. “Disciples are our crowns;” AZ says, “that's the greatest reward.” Pray for unity in the Kazakh church and for pastors to be strengthened and encouraged to endure for Christ despite persecution. Pastor AZ encourages us to pray for the next generation of believers as they take on leadership in the Kazakh church. September 2024 marks the ten-year anniversary of VOM Radio. Please share how you've been encouraged and inspired by the testimonies and stories of our persecuted Christian family on VOM Radio over the past 10 years. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast.