Disciples Prepare for Christian Persecution – Message from Matthew 10
Did you know that Christian persecution isn’t just something from the past? Yes, the early disciples faced persecution. But, believers around the world—and even in subtle ways here in the U.S.—still experience challenges for their faith today.
In Matthew 10:17-42, Jesus prepares His disciples for the hardships they will face as they go out to share the gospel. But instead of fearing these struggles, He teaches them how to turn difficulties into opportunities, to boldly share His message.
So, what can we learn from Jesus’ words? Let’s explore how the disciples prepared for persecution—and what that means for us today.
Jesus Foretells the Persecution of Christians
But beware of men, for they will hand you over to the courts and scourge you in their synagogues; and you will even be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.
But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say.
For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.
“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death.
You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved.”
“But whenever they persecute you in one city, flee to the next; for truly I say to you, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel until the Son of Man comes.” – Matthew 10:17-42 NASB
Jesus Prepares His Disciples for Persecution
A Pastor’s Story – Faith Under Fire
Imagine being sentenced to eight years in prison—just for your faith. That was the reality for a Christian pastor in Iran, who faced harsh punishment simply because he followed Jesus.
Sadly, Christian persecution isn’t a thing of the past. Around the world, oppressors harass, imprison, and even kill believers for their faith. And yet, these stories often go unreported by major news networks.
Governments and world leaders frequently focus on issues like climate change, healthcare, and elections (these are all important). But, the suffering of Christians remains hidden in the shadows. In Matthew, Jesus warned His disciples that persecution was coming—and His words still ring true today.
Jesus’ Warning Becomes Reality
In Matthew 10:18, Jesus predicted that His followers would be arrested, put on trial, and falsely accused—just as He Himself would be. We’ve seen this prophecy fulfilled time and time again, from the Roman Empire to modern-day persecution.
Pastor Saeed Abedini endured years of unjust imprisonment for his faith. His story echoes the very trials Jesus described to His disciples.
Christian Persecution Across the World
Persecution isn’t limited to one country or time period. Christian believers in places like Vietnam, China, Syria, and Africa continue to face oppression simply because of their faith. These stories don’t always make headlines, but they are real.
As you read this, Christians around the world suffer because of who they are. Their faith is tested daily, yet they stand firm in the hope of Christ.
To see an example of modern persecution, watch this 2025 video from the AFA. Let it serve as a reminder to pray for those facing hardships for their faith.
Freedom of Religion in the USA
In America, we often take religious freedom for granted. But look closer, and you’ll see that subtle Christian persecution is on the rise. It’s not always dramatic, but it’s happening—in the media, government policies, schools, and even public spaces.
Consider this: Crosses disappear from the graves of fallen American soldiers to prevent offense to other faiths. The word “God” vanishes from public conversations, gradually pushed out of schools, workplaces, and government spaces. Meanwhile, prayer in schools faces legal battles, and Christian symbols are removed from public view—all in the name of tolerance.
But, the contradiction is clear—those who stand firm in biblical truth and proclaim that Jesus is the only way to salvation are often the ones branded as intolerant.
Persecution Isn’t New—Jesus Warned Us
This isn’t about complaining—it’s about recognizing what Jesus told us would happen. Christian persecution has existed since the beginning, and Jesus made it clear:
“You will be hated by everyone because of Me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 10:22 (NASB)
Yes, challenges for Christians in America are increasing. But in other parts of the world, persecution isn’t just subtle—it’s life-threatening. In some countries, simply owning a Bible can mean imprisonment or worse.
Christian Persecution Around the World
Here are just a few real-life stories of believers who have suffered for their faith.
China
In her 20s, a young woman ran a small Christian newsletter in China. When the government discovered her efforts, they arrested her and forced her to walk barefoot on a stone floor throughout the night. The sharp stones cut into her feet, leaving a visible trail of blood behind her.
Upon her release, they sent her to a factory, where she was forced to make Christmas decorations. These decorations would later be sold in America. Ironic, isn’t it? Many of us unknowingly fuel China’s economy by buying cheaper products, while Christians there suffer for their faith.
Vietnam
In Vietnam, a group of believers recently visited our church and shared their struggles. They shared how they are forced to hold their Bible study meetings in total secrecy, always living in fear of being discovered.
One man told how police dragged him away and beat him, simply because he was a Christian. He survived, but the scars—both physical and emotional—remain as a reminder of his faithfulness to Christ.
Syria & Africa
In many regions, Christians face brutal persecution—arrested, tortured, and even executed simply for refusing to deny their faith.
Take the story of one man from a small African nation (whose identity must remain hidden for his safety). When Islamic militants seized control of his country, they captured him and demanded he convert to Islam. He refused.
As punishment, they hung him upside down and poured boiling oil over his feet, inflicting unimaginable pain. Yet, even in his suffering, he stood firm in his faith—a powerful testament to the strength and courage of persecuted Christians worldwide.
Despite unimaginable pain, he refused to deny Christ. To survive, he had to flee to the U.S., leaving behind his home, his family, and everything he knew.
These aren’t just stories—these are real people. And they’re not alone. Right now, millions of Christians worldwide are enduring persecution.
Jesus Prepared His Disciples for Persecution
In Matthew 10:17-18, Jesus warned His disciples that they would face opposition from religious leaders, governments, and even their own families. But instead of fearing persecution, they saw it as an opportunity to spread the gospel.
Jesus didn’t promise an easy road—He promised eternal life for those who remain faithful. That promise still holds true today.
What About China, Vietnam, Syria, and Africa?
In the U.S., Christian persecution takes on a different shape.
Authorities are removing crosses from public spaces, calling them “offensive.” Officials are silencing families, forbidding them from praying in Jesus’ name at military funerals. And those who speak boldly about their faith are branded as intolerant.
This shift may be more subtle, but it’s still a form of Christian persecution.
Meanwhile, the media remains silent about Christian persecution, while other religions receive public support. Across the world, believers continue to suffer for their faith—and few are talking about it.
Our Call—Will We Stay Faithful?
Jesus warned that persecution would come. The question is:
- Will we stand firm in our faith?
- Will we keep sharing Jesus, even when it’s difficult?
- Will we pray for our brothers and sisters who suffer for Christ?
Now is the time to act. Persecution is real. Faith demands courage.
What will you do?
Love In Christ
– Bob
Want to learn how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ? Please read the verse: John 3:16 for more information.