TODAY’S PROPHETIC WORD
Persecution is not coming to this generation, it is already here. Because you are Mine, you will be persecuted the same way I was. You will be called a liar, drunkard and blasphemer. Do not fear! I am with you and I know the truth. You are free!
BOARD THIS BATTLESHIP
As believers living in this day God has trusted us with, we have to be willing to stand where Jesus Himself stands.
Now, you need to understand this is the truth about the day and age you and I live in: You will be labeled the bad guy if you stand for truth.
You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. – Matthew 10:22
This statement, made over 2,000 years ago, is so true today. But wait! There’s more. Jesus says something absolutely amazing a few verses later.
“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master.” – Matthew 10:24
Translate that as Jesus saying, “You’re no better than me and I’m persecuted, so you should expect to be persecuted too.”
Unfortunately, when it comes to persecution, we’ve turned our churches into “cruise ships” instead of “battleships.” As soon as we begin to feel anything uncomfortable, we assume Lord Jesus has left the boat. Here’s the truth: Jesus isn’t even on that boat.
Jesus is never on the cruise ship. Never. He’s the Captain of the Lord’s Armies and He’s a flat-out warrior. He’s on the battleship called the Church fighting a very real enemy for the souls of lost men and women. That’s where you and I are supposed to be too.
You see, you and I are the Church – the Bride of Christ – and we’re a warrior bride. When the going gets rough and the enemy deals us a financial blow, sickness, broken relationship or straight up persecution because we’re standing on the truth, we’re in the right place.
Who told you God wants you to be comfortable? Who told you that you are in the center of God’s will if everything is going right and you have no problems? Those are lies from the pit of hell designed to keep you on the sidelines.
Get in the fight! If Jesus was persecuted for telling the people of His generation the truth, so will you and I. It’s time toughen up and board this battleship!
From my sermon series I LOVE MY TRIBE
