15.08.2020

Most of disciples die mysteriously except John, Why?

Bible passages: 
Acts 7:51-60; Lev 24:10-16; Mat 10:17-25

Discussion:
The question took us to Jewish religion - Judaism. Judaism is the religion of the Israelites which some are still practising today. They do not believe in Jesus Christ; in actual fact they are still expecting the messiah.
Lev 24:16 tells us about the law laid down by God for whoever speak against Him. In accordance to God’s law; the punishment for such sin is death
Going back to the question, the Israelites see the disciplines as blasphemers as they act against their believe. The Israelites did not believe in Jesus or His disciples. They see themselves as someone who is working for God and following His laws but the disciples were portrayed as breakers of God’s laws - blasphemers.
The judgement for “blasphemer” at that time was painful death.
Nowadays, Christians are still facing persecution in their lives, at work or society in general but we should remember what Jesus Christ said in Matthew 10:17-25 be careful of people, because they will arrest you and take you to court, whip you in their synagogue because of Me.
We looked at the death of Stephen(the first martyr) Act 7:51-60
“Verse 56 Stephen saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at God’s right side” This means approval of God. God was being proud of Stephen’s boldness and how he was testifying about Him.
On the other hand, the Israelites interpreted it as blasphemy vs 57-58 Stephen was stoned to death.
No matter how the disciples die, what matters is where they are going.
We have the Grace of God available to us, we need to claim our Grace in Jesus Name.
In summary we need to be mindful of how we interpret news and messages been circulated by people as some could discourage us from following Christ or doing His work.
Be aware that no matter how Christians are being persecuted God will continue to reign and see us through. We need to continue with the work of God; spreading the gospel.
God has a good thing for His Children and knows what He wants from us.
In addition when we are asked to give our views on homosexuality. Use the wisdom of God to answer Rom 1:18-32.
Learn to use the word of God to answer, make reference to the bible and emphasis that you are following what is written in the bible and it is not written by you.
Another example of how to answer tricky question is in John 9:1-23 story of the blind man that Jesus healed. The Jews went to ask the parents question that has already been answered by the man who received his sight. The parents answered by referring the Jews back to their son; they said “he is old enough, ask him”.
God will continue to give us wisdom in Jesus Name. Amen🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽.

Praise God