As a Christian, you may be called before you are aware, into the field either to suffer for God or from God. . . . God can soon change the scene in which you live, the public affairs and the conditions. Maybe, at present the authorities smile on the church of God; but within a while it may frown, and the storm of persecution arise. There was a time when the churches had “rest throughout all Judea” (Acts 9:31). It was a blessed time. But how long did it last? Alas! Not long.
– William Gurnall
1617 – 1679
Christ Alone Wyoming 
This is something I truly agree with and wonder how long it will be before we, in the western world, suffer for our beliefs! We see this happening more and more with Obama in office due to the poor choices he has made in picking foolish people to be part of his cabinet! How can we expect to pass by suffering when Philippians 1:2 says, ” For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;”
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Great quote!
I have said for a little while now that the church in the West (America , Australia, UK etc) needs persecution to come.
Scary but oh so needed.
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I have been of the mind for some time now that perhaps the best test of the church in the US of A would be for tax deductibility to be taken away. How much do we love the Lord? More than manna? I’ve read accounts from Christians in persecuted countries who have seen what “freedom” has contributed to churches in Europe and the USA and they want none of it. They see their governments as the hand of God that keeps them from coveting and keeps false converts away.
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