“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” – 2 Timothy 3:12
Throughout history, the Church in every age has had to endure various levels of hostility, mistreatment, and persecution. The Scriptures teach that persecution has always and always will be a part of our faith journey as Christians as we follow Christ. The root of the world’s mistreatment of believers stems from the world’s mistreatment of Christ himself.
This is why Jesus said, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (John 15:18). A new study by the Family Research Council (FRC) reveals that here at home in America, anger and acts of hostility have been directed toward churches in concerning numbers.
Recently, in its annual “Hostility Against Churches” report, the FRC documented that at least 415 hostile acts targeting 383 churches across 43 states in 2024 occurred here in America. Furthermore, from January 2018 through December 2024, there have been a cumulative total of 1,384 acts of hostility against churches throughout the United States.
As the American Church is facing considerable hostility here at home, may we as the Body of Christ, remember that Christian persecution is nothing new as “all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). May we, as the Church, endure through all the adversity that comes our way all while staying faithful to our Lord knowing the gates of hell will not prevail against it (Matt. 16:18).
Whatever may come our way, as the Church, let us finish our race well for the Lord, as we confidently know, when it is all said and done, that we are on the winning side, God’s side!
LET US PRAY…
Father, may Your Church remain strong here in America, even in the face of hostility and tribulation. Remind us, Lord, that Your Church will never be overcome by the enemy and that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Father, empower us to be bold in our witness for You, no matter the consequences. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
