“But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.” Hebrews 10:39
There have been many challenges in one of the cities in China recently. After the incident of the ‘fake brother’, the Christians in this city were preparing for the funeral of the sister, Esther, who died while being righteous a year and a half ago. On top of these they faced another severe challenge of their faith the following week.
When they were having a D-Group in a brother’s household, a brother suddenly came into the house with 4 police officers. This brother was suspected to be involved in a theft and was brought back for investigations, to see if there were any stolen goods in the house. Everyone was taken aback although they managed to keep calm. The police went about searching the house while the brothers and sisters pretended to be watching TV. After about 50 minutes, the police left with the brother, who later out of his moment of weakness, eventually told the police everything about the Church, including personal information of the members, their schedules, and the Church Leaders! From being “underground,” they suddenly found themselves “exposed.” Now, they can truly walk in the “light!” After hearing this news, the youngest brother among them decided to leave due to a lack of faith. However most other brothers and sisters did not choose to ‘shrink back’. On the contrary their faith was strengthened. After all, those who decided to walk in the Lord will experience persecution! So as scheduled, they met the following Sunday for Esther’s funeral service. The epitaph on her gravestone was: Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Mt 5:10) One day later, the brother who left came back. He wanted to start over again. Some brothers and sisters also renounced their sins. Some even made decisions to be self-supported interns and student interns.
The courage and faith they demonstrated during times of trials, the perseverance and hope they showed under dominion ruled by Satan are really appreciated and admired. There are still many lessons for us to learn. Let us praise God for his protection over us.
posted by Jerry Maday
