In last week’s 2 Kingdoms Messenger, the unity of the Body of Christ was emphasized, for every believer around the world and throughout time is our brother or sister in Christ. Today’s Messenger drives home our responsibility to make intercession for every part of that body that is in need.

As One Body, Paul says in 1 Corinthians 12:25-26, all the parts of the body of Christ “should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.”

Therefore, as one royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), we need to intercede for those parts of the body who are suffering – and we intercede both in the right-hand kingdom and the left-hand kingdom.

First, as citizens of the right-hand kingdom of Heaven, we need to pray earnestly for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are undergoing persecution. We pray for their protection and for their continued courage to live as servants of Christ. We pray that they would continue to share the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ without fear, for only the Gospel that has the power to truly transform the hearts of those who are persecuting them.

Second, as citizens of the left-hand kingdom God has instituted on earth, we are obligated to intercede for them by ensuring that they are not forgotten and that their stories are heard. This includes, but is not limited to, encouraging our government officials to take the persecution of Christians seriously. As much as we can, we should make other Christians aware of the reality of what is taking place so that they, too, can get involved.

Sadly, today this is easier said than done, for it is also increasingly difficult to know what information to believe. The things posted on social media can be manipulated or represented falsely to try to stir up opposition to groups that may not be responsible. That is why it is important to go to trusted sources.

There are many Christian groups that share credible information on the persecution of the Church – organizations like Open Doors , International Christian Concern, and Voice of the Martyrs. There are also agencies, such as Advocates International and Alliance Defending Freedom, that specialize in providing legal help in multiple countries around the world.

Today, we must make the most of our opportunity to use the freedoms and wealth we have in this nation to help others around the world, because tomorrow we might be the ones in need. The political situation can change quickly, so we must not squander what we have been given today.

We also need to let these accounts inspire us. May the great cloud of witnesses, past and present, embolden us to live with greater courage and faith in Christ.

In next week’s Messenger, we will look at 1 Peter 4 and learn ways to strengthen our faith so that we may always be bold witnesses for Christ.

Blessings,
Pastor Barry