Hebrews 10:32-36 - “But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”
These verses give us great insight into the lives of those who came to faith early on in church history. After they “were enlightened” with the love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness of Jesus, these ancient brothers and sisters faced persecution. This happened in a variety of ways that can parallel our respective walks 20 centuries later.
1. They dealt with public reproach. In other words, people verbally condemned them for their faith in Jesus. There are those today who condemn Jesus and his church.
2. They sometimes suffered by association. Because they were partners with others of faith who were persecuted - they too were persecuted. In our culture, too, we can be judged by our affiliation with other Christians.
3. They sometimes suffered loss of personal property as popular opinion allowed looting and destroying of homes. This isn’t as common in America, but Christians do sometimes lose job and income opportunities because of their faith.
So, how do Christians (then and now) get though this. Here’s the word - “do not throw away your confidence.” Confidence can be another word for faith. It may not look great now, but I’m confident (I believe) that Jesus is going to keep ALL of his promises for me in Jesus. And if that’s true, I can confidently look forward, and past my current sufferings.
Watch today's Mike Talk