Unjust Persecution of the Innocent

In 1 Samuel 22 records a horrific act:

“The king then ordered Doeg, “You turn and strike down the priests.” So Doeg the Edomite turned and struck them down. That day he killed eighty-five men who wore the linen ephod.” (1 Samuel 22:18)

For what crime did these priests deserve such brutality? Their only transgression was unknowing interference with attempted murder. One of them – Ahimelech, the high priest of Nob – had unwittingly aided David as he fled from Saul’s attempt to kill him (1 Samuel 21).

This tragic slaughter occurred because of Saul’s jealousy and abuse of power. Christians around the world today likewise suffer under those who abuse their power and act unjustly. Frequently, Christians are singled out and targeted for injustice. In this world, there will always be an enemy that wants to destroy us. Jesus promised His followers:

Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. (Matthew 10:16)

The enemy will be ruthless and cruel. Even the most innocent and faithful of Jesus’ followers may be targeted for persecution – and may suffer.

What can we as Christians do to prepare for such suffering?

• • • First, we should be “wise as serpents.” Wherever we can do so without compromising the truth of the gospel’s message or the honour of God’s holy name, we should seek to avoid or minimize the risk of injustice and oppression.
    • Second, we should be “innocent as doves.” When our testimony, the honour of God’s name, or the love of our Christian brothers and sisters requires it, we must be willing to face the abuse of power and to suffer injustice – with a compassion that goes much further than justice, and a love that is far more powerful than sinful rage and hate.

In short, we must love God, proclaim His Word, and love others around us as much we possibly can – as safely as we possibly can.  We are sheep amidst wolves. Therefore, we must obey the Great Commission by taking calculated risks for the gospel. The Bible calls this calculated risk-taking “prudence.”

But there is more:

• • • When taking calculated risks for the gospel, we must never measure the risk by our own ability to protect ourselves. Instead, we must remember we serve a God Who sees the abuse of power and injustice – and Who will ultimately bring justice and righteousness.  Our God is a just God who is angry with the wicked every day (Ps. 7:11).  He will repay those who trouble us (2 Thessalonians 1:6).
    • We must also remember we serve a God Who promises to be always with us, even – especially – in in the face of suffering and injustice. In the worst circumstances, He will not leave us or forsake us.  13:5 – 6; Deut. 31:6 – 8.
    See also

    

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    Persecution Prompts Compassion for Those Without the Gospel

    October 3, 2023·0

The Bible calls Jesus’ protection of His children, and His provision of promised resources in the mist of their suffering, His “providence.”

Finally, if we will be faithful to our calling, Jesus promises a crown of life:

Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. (Revelation 2: 10)

Soli Deo Gloria.