Persecution involves the deliberate targeting and mistreatment of Christians . . . just because they are speaking and acting like Christians. On the surface, persecution may be driven by religious, political, or social factors. But fundamentally, it is part of the spiritual darkness that binds all humans. And this darkness should prompt compassion for the persecutors.
Author Samuel Whitefield puts it this way:
When we realize that the source of our oppression is not other human beings, but the powers and principalities of this age, it helps us to open our hearts to share the gospel with our persecutors. They seem fierce, but they are actually in chains.
The spiritual dimension of persecution invites us to look beyond the surface-level dynamics of persecution and instead to consider the deeper motivations and struggles of the persecutors. It prompts us to consider the spiritual battle that dominates unbelievers. It requires us to consider the persecutor’s fears, insecurities, or misguided beliefs – and how the enemy exploits these weaknesses for suffering. By understanding that persecutors are slaves of darkness, we are reminded that they too need the transformative power of the gospel. We unleash that power when we see our persecutors with the same compassion as Jesus.
Consider Saul. Once a fervent persecutor of Christians, he later became the apostle Paul, one of the most influential preachers and teachers of the very faith he once sought to destroy. His encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus – and his compassionate welcome by the believers he once persecuted (Acts 9) – led him from persecuting to preaching, establishing churches, and writing letters that would later become significant parts of the New Testament. Paul’s transformation from a persecutor to a preacher showcases the power of God’s grace and the potential for redemption and change, unleashed by the power of Christlike compassion, displayed through persecuted Christians.
Throughout his earthly ministry, Jesus himself faced persecution. He was rejected, mocked, and ultimately crucified for his message of love, forgiveness, and salvation. Yet, in the face of relentless persecution, Jesus responded with a compassion that transcended human understanding: “Father, forgive them – for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34. His love and grace extended even to those who had yet to hear his message.
In the face of persecution, we are called to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Though we should speak out against injustice and suffering, our ultimate goal is not to win arguments, to assert our rights, or even to protect ourselves. Our goal is to share gospel. Our goal is to display the love of Christ and to bring others into a relationship with Him. Compassion in the face of persecution prompts us to approach evangelism with humility, gentleness, and respect, recognizing it is the Holy Spirit who convicts and transforms hearts.
As we confront persecution head-on, let us be encouraged to respond with love, compassion, and empathy. Let us remember the example set by Jesus, who faced persecution with grace and forgiveness. Let us pray for those like Saul who persecute us and open our hearts and homes like Barnabas and other believers who did the same. Above all, let us trust in the power of God to give us the strength and protection we need to extend His compassion – and to powerfully transform the lives of those who live in spiritual captivity, darkness, and fear.
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