Persecution Of Christians By "Christians"

By: Hanna Henderson

Disciples of the doctrine of Jesus of Nazareth of the Holy Bible are increasingly becoming victims of religious persecution worldwide. However, the article, infomercial or documentary usually cites followers of non-Christian doctrines such as Islam, Hinduism or Buddhism as the perpetrators of the persecution. Nevertheless, such groups of people are not, by far, the only ones to subject the servants of God to martyrdom.

There is another group of people who have joined in the futile attempt to eradicate Christianity. Ironically, they identify themselves as Christians also. How can this be? Although an explanation of the real reason behind the multiple "interpretations" of the scriptures is beyond the scope of this article, the answer to this question lies in a sobering truth revealed in the Bible.

The New Testament scripture of Matthew 24:24 warns, "for there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders...." These were the words of the Lord Jesus. Again, the Christian is reminded of this fact when he reads, "beloved, believe not every spirit, but try (test) the spirits whether they are of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world" (KJV, 1 John 4:1). Those who persecute others for their faith in Christ are not only members of anti-Christian churches, but are also members of the same churches as the followers of Christ.

Just as Jesus, the Son of God has his followers, so the false Christs have theirs. This is why Christians are and will be persecuted by others who also claim to follow Christianity. The Bible goes into great detail regarding how and why some have been deceived into following a false Christ. In a nutshell, they have willingly closed their eyes to truth. They have stopped up their ears to God's voice and therefore many have been turned over to embrace the darkness they love (St. John 12:35-40).

This is precisely why Jesus warned his sheep saying, "they shall put you out of the synagogues. Yea, the time cometh that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them" (St. John 16:2-4).

Article Source: http://www.articles.narrowisthepath.com

Recommended reading: Jesus Or His Impostor? Helping the persecuted church: In Jesus' Name Ministries

Please Share and Bookmark this Article