“And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day, a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.” – Acts 8:1
On 13 July 2023, International Christian Concern reported that “Christians, Messianic Jews, and missionaries face increasing hostility from Jewish radicals in Israel. Recently, activists from the Lehava organization and the Or l’Achim organization physically attempted to block persons from attending a convention of Messianic Jews in Jerusalem. Israeli law enforcement responded to the scene to disperse the activists and ensure the event’s safety, leading to one activist’s arrest.”
The report went on to say that “While there have long been occasional incidents of hostility and even violence towards Christians in Israel, there has been a rise in recent months. Some analysts assess that the rise in hostility and violence is tied to the current Israeli ruling coalition, which is largely supported by radical factions strongly protective of the Israeli Orthodox Jewish character and opposed to Christianity in the public square.”
Since Christ’s time on earth, there are those who oppose Him and His followers. Today in prayer, pray for those who are persecuted that the Lord will strengthen them and that the persecution will be short-lived.
“Persecution for righteousness' sake is what every child of God must expect.” - Charles Simeon
God’s Word: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
A Few Clouds, 61°