“No one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age.”
Mark 10:29-30
Jesus told Peter and the other disciples that those who sell out for Jesus will be reimbursed many times over. But somehow persecutions are included as part of the manifold blessings (see v. 30b). Now that’s an amazing and sobering call to trust in Jesus!
God’s people have experienced persecution throughout history. Paul, who himself was both persecutor and persecuted, wrote in his second letter to Timothy, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (3:12).
Very likely, you and I may not feel oppressed for our faith much at all until one day when the pressure in our families, workplaces, schools, or neighborhoods blows up—simply because we’ve taken a stand for Christ. We begin to understand the weight of following Jesus. And we cry out to Him.
Albert Einstein’s wife was asked if she understood the theory of relativity. She replied, “No, but I know Albert, and he can be trusted.” Similarly, we may not understand the blessing in persecution that Jesus promises. But we know Him, and He can be trusted.
God’s people have experienced persecution throughout history. Paul, who himself was both persecutor and persecuted, wrote in his second letter to Timothy, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (3:12).
Very likely, you and I may not feel oppressed for our faith much at all until one day when the pressure in our families, workplaces, schools, or neighborhoods blows up—simply because we’ve taken a stand for Christ. We begin to understand the weight of following Jesus. And we cry out to Him.
Albert Einstein’s wife was asked if she understood the theory of relativity. She replied, “No, but I know Albert, and he can be trusted.” Similarly, we may not understand the blessing in persecution that Jesus promises. But we know Him, and He can be trusted.
Scripture Focus
Mark 10:27-31
Insight
Are you willing to travel “first class,” putting your trust in the Lord (see Psalm 84:12)? Turn your hard situations over to Jesus today.
Bible In A Year
- Exodus 1-2
- Psalm 26
- Mark 6