Martyrdom

Persecution is widespread and martyrdom is not unusual. People will be martyred until the number of those set apart to be martyred is fulfilled. We need a fresh group of people who are not afraid to die because they know this life is not all there is. We need to come to the understanding that this is not all there is; when we do, we begin to find a ground for courage. With that courage we can accomplish what God has for us to do. Fox's Book of Martyrs was standard reading for English classes at one time. Everyone should read John Wycliffe's account (also Tyndale's) in Fox's Book of Martyrs if nothing else. Throughout history people have paid for their "successfulness" with their lives. In order to be successful in following Jesus we must be obedient to God. Jesus Christ is Lord and those who are martyred know that this life is not all there is. The purpose of our lives in these bodies is for the glory of God. If we realize that our purpose is to serve our Lord and do what He says no matter what we will know Jesus's words are true. If we are not afraid to live for Christ we will not be afraid to die. We need to make our decisions based on what the Lord says.