Persecution is not a new phenomena to Christians. From the very beginning of our Lord's time on earth, those who followed Him have been berated, imprisoned, and killed for their faith.

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Jesus warns us of this treatment throughout the Gospels, particularly in Matthew 24:9 "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake."

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But he also shows us our reward in Matthew 5:10–12: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

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If the world can crucify our Lord Jesus Christ, a perfect man (), then why would we expect it to make exceptions for us? We should remember the words given to us in Revelation 2:10: “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”