Articles
The Coming Test
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Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Rev. 2:10)
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A crown of life awaited the church in Smyrna. Ah, yes, that's what we're all looking forward to, isn't it? But no reward comes without cost, and these people were about to face a test unlike anything they had experienced before. Could they hold out through the approaching storm of persecution?
What these early Christians endured was nothing new. In fact, it has been the norm throughout history. Consider some notable examples:
- Joseph would be the savior of his family one day, but not until he had endured years of injustice and bondage in Egypt.
- To reach their Promised Land, God led the Israelites on a difficult journey through a harsh wilderness, an experience He called a "test" of their faith (Deut. 8:2, 16).
- As a young man, David had been anointed to be the next king of Israel, but only after he had suffered years of mistreatment at the hands of the current king.
- The apostles were chosen by Jesus to be the foundation of His church, but they first had to have their faith shattered by His crucifixion before they could appreciate what His kingdom was about.
American Christians have for many years lived under a benign government that has left us alone to worship and serve God as we desire. Coupled with a standard of living that is the envy of the world, our lives have been comfortable. Perhaps too comfortable.
We should not be surprised to learn that it is our turn now. The brief window of peace and prosperity that we have enjoyed is now closing, hastened by a government that is increasingly hostile to faith and morality. Powerful people are openly talking about "targeting" and "silencing" people of faith. We will find out soon enough what they have in mind.
We are about to be tested in a manner we have never experienced before. Whatever comes our way, the same assurance Jesus gave to the church at Smyrna He gives to us: "Do not fear those things which you are about to suffer. . . . Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life."
Do we have what it takes to pass the test?
--David
