Persecution is one thing we as true believers experience. This is one aspect of life that sets apart the called from the chosen. Those who have carnally minded religion and those who have been separated by the will of God. One can not be accepted by the world and speak the truth of God. Just like oil and water does not mix, it's the same for the spiritually minded with the carnally minded.
Albeit, the spiritually minded forgive those fleshly minded, because we follow Jesus, and say forgive them Father, for they know not what they do. This is what separates the called from the chosen, because of experience, by being judged in this life, to learn the right way to treat our fellow man.
Jesus, who bore the sins of the world, was judged for our sins and accepted the will of the Father. Obedience is the key. We learn of righteous judgment by obedience. And obedience of the spiritual truths in this world will bring persecution and tribulation. There is no escaping it.
I have been kicked out of several churches, told I was possessed by a devil, thought to be crazy, damned to hell, looked at as if I was one of the lost that is destined to eternal hellfire, ostrasized, have had all kinds of rumors and false accusations spread to belittle my character and intent.
So on and so on, they never cease to amaze me what can come out of the heart of man. Not only the people who initiate these incriminations, but the feeble minded ones who believe such things. Not sure which is worse. It is incredible and hard to comprehend how people who say they are saved and love God can do such things.
But, then again, I look at the prophets in the Old Testament, our Lord, the apostles, and through history all the untold millions who have suffered greatly for the truth. I, no longer am alone, but in the company of many brethren and sisters, called, chosen, and faithful. Amen.
I have to say, I love it!
God bless,
Gary