This morning I was reading out of John 12:42 where there were new Christians that would not publically confess that they believed in Jesus Christ because they feared the those in power in the synagogue.
This was not a case of going to another synagogue when yours does not work out. People who followed Christ were basically shunned. They were forced out of the Jewish community. They could not do business with their own people. They could neither sell nor buy from their Jewish brothers. In essence they would be forced to “Tow the Line” or else. Taking the step of following Christ was more than just attending a service; it meant possible starvation for you and your family. What commitment they must have had to follow Jesus. It makes me look at my own faith, could I do the same if put in the same circumstances?
Are Christians being called to that of heading back to the land and nature? Is God calling his children to raise their own crops and animals? Is this a sign of things to come? God holds the future and He knows what is in store for us. All we need to do is to trust him and follow his leading by praying and listening to his voice.
We learn that in Revelation 13:17 Christians will be put once again in that same position. They will not be able to buy nor sell without the mark of the beast (Satan’s mark). What commitment will that take to shun the Beast and follow Jesus, even if that means losing your life and that of your family’s lives.
Is that happening today, yes it is and at a greater rate. Just look at the Christians in Iraq and what is happening to them. See what is happening in Iran to the Christians there. The interesting thing though is that God said that he would never abandon us. Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
John 10:14 When he brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
