The Christian Attitude Towards Persecution SS1 Christian Religious Studies (CRS) Lesson Note

Persecution is an act of molesting a person or a group of people. It involves harassment, individuation, oppression, incarceration and physical assault which may lead to the death of the victim. Persecution may come as a result of one’s religious or political beliefs. In the case of Christianity, which is our main focus, persecution comes as a result of the Christian faith, determination, boldness and full commitment to the service of God. 

They are particularly hated as a result of their uncompromising attitude and physical unwillingness to yield to worldly passion which they saw as dangerous to their spiritual growth.

The Christian attitude towards persecution, St. Peter acknowledges the fact that Christians may have to suffer various trials to test the genuine 55 of their faith. As gold passes through fire to be refined, so also is the persecution of Christians for their endurance would qualify them for honour and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. St. Peter advised Christians to rejoice in the face of their persecution because without seeing Christ, they love him, they believe in him. The outcome of their faith would help them obtain the salvation of their souls.

The significance of Christian persecution is:

1. Christians should not conform to canal and worldly desires.
2. They should be sober and holy as God is holy, they must try to live holy lives.
3. Christians should not be ashamed to share in the sufferings of Jesus Christ, instead they should glorify God.
4. Persecution is used to test the genuine 55 of the faith of Christians.
5. It is better to suffer for the sake of Christ than to suffer as a criminal.