Stand Strong

In the 7th century AD, the Byzantine Emperor exiled Maximus the Confessor for speaking the truth about Christ. Maximus held to his convictions despite his suffering, even after he was mutilated and was dying from his wounds.

Maximus is an extreme example, yet he is one among hundreds of thousands of Christians who have suffered for their faith, often at the hands of nonbelievers, even those who might have been friends. And that’s the reality of being a Christian: often, it really isn’t much fun. It would be preferable to be in Heaven with Jesus. However, He put us on earth for an important purpose that we can’t fulfil up there: leading the lost back to Him.

Physical and emotional conflict are inevitable when sharing the Good News. God considers His strongest followers to be those who stand firm in the face of opposition.

When facing physical suffering, don’t mind what other people say, think, or do (2 Timothy 2:1-6). Like a soldier, remain focused on pleasing your King in Heaven and doing what He sent you to do. Like an athlete, conduct yourself with integrity and keep running toward the prize of eternal life with Jesus. Like a farmer, work hard from before sunrise to after sundown to pass your faith on to others.

And when people who might have been your friends wound you emotionally because of your faith, respond with God’s grace (2 Timothy 2:15-25). Don’t be ashamed; explain Scripture gently and guide others patiently along the right path. And, as always, continue living God’s truth in your own life.

When you face opposition for your faith, remember that you stand strong on the hope of the Gospel. Jesus suffered and died for us first, then overcame death and rose again. Suffering and dying for Christ is a way to share in His eternal life and glory (2 Timothy 2:8-11). This is the foundation of our faith. Keep it at the centre of who you are.

You can watch the full sermon here.