A Great Crowd Cheering Us On

In 1 Corinthians 4:9, Paul says, “God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena.”

The Corinthians were familiar with Roman arenas. First-round gladiators were armed to defend themselves. But later in the day (“at the end of the procession”), criminals and captured enemies were forced to enter the arena naked and unarmed to be brutally attacked by wild beasts or armed opponents.

It’s healthy to remember those who’ve been persecuted for their faith. They are the “great cloud of witnesses” cheering us on (Hebrews 12:1-4).

They challenge, inspire, and encourage us to stand firm, reminding us that “those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good” (1 Peter 4:19).

Our persecutions are small in comparison, but the pressures are growing: blatant immorality, deceptive pagan influences, tempting materialism, and dangerous narcissism.

Blessed are those willing to stand firm and be persecuted for righteousness sake (Matthew 5:10).
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For additional encouragement:
Right is Right
Pagan Influences
Where's Your Bank?
How to Spot a Narcissist

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