If They Start Killing Christians

If They Start Killing Christians

By Keith Bellamy

In a news report a few years ago there was a news flash that made the following statement. “As many as 80 people were publicly executed in North Korea earlier this year, some for offenses as minor as watching South Korean movies or possessing a Bible.”

We have since learned that the killing of Christians was much worse than reported. Now we hear of Christians being executed in other parts of the world.

So, I started thinking about Christians being killed. After all it happened in the early days of Christianity and it has happened throughout history.

Phil Ware recently wrote the following in Heartlight magazine. “Jesus wasn't hated because he was a sweet, nice, non-threatening "why can't we all get along" kind of guy — the soft sweet Jesus so often portrayed in current mythology and popular culture. The real person was God's man. He spoke God's truth. He did God's work. He loved all kinds of people, not just the "nice" or powerful ones. He challenged common assumptions about God, religion, and power. He talked about an alternative way to live and called it the Kingdom of God — incendiary terms to those in power. Most of all, he spoke the truth to everyone and in every situation. He didn't back down. He didn't try to "spin" the truth so that he was acceptable. So, the last week of Jesus' life was marked with intense conflict and ended with his death.”

And if they start killing Christians what Phil has said is the reason they will do it. And I remember Jesus saying His followers would be persecuted. So, why should we be surprised when this happens?

Notice these words from 1 Peter 4:12 – 16. Dear friends don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad — for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. So be happy when you are insulted for being a Christian, for then the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. If you suffer, however, it must not be for murder, stealing, making trouble, or prying into other people’s affairs. But it is no shame to suffer for being a Christian.

ANOTHER Shooting

By Keith Bellamy

Once again, another shooting has happened. I cannot begin to comprehend the hate that produces such a horrific event. The heartache and sorrow is beyond what most of us have ever experienced. So, our prayers are with the families affected by this devastation.

I was on a plane flying back to Houston a few years ago and a lady sitting by me was very nervous. She stated that her son had barely escaped from the first tower of 911 and that she was going to California to see him. She talked about the stress her son endured from 911 and how at age 35 his hair turned completely white almost overnight.

So, what do we do when everything seems to fall apart? Where do we go when another tragedy takes place?

Jesus referred to two events that may have caused some to wonder when bad things happen to people do they deserve it or not. Some may have been very self-righteous.

Luke 13:2 Jesus answered, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? Luke 13:4 Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them-do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? In verse 3 and 5 He called on them to repent, which is what He would ask us to do if we think we are better than those who suffer.

Jesus was the only One Who understood, and I think the same is true today; He understands. There are many who suffer from some sort of mental affliction. Some must take medicine, and some endure depression that no one seems to understand. Some live believing there is no hope, and some describe this life as living in a place of darkness.

I believe our God understands and that we will have to lean on His everlasting arms! Jesus is the LIGHT! “Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you!”

How is Your Heart?

How is Your Heart?

--By Keith Bellamy

Sometimes we don't listen when we need the right medical help. I needed to have my heart checked many years ago and I failed to listen to my doctor's advice. I ended up in trouble and had to have open-heart surgery and a very serious problem was repaired. Most of my trouble was because of a genetic defect but my lifestyle didn’t help the situation. And I am eternally thankful for the skill of the physicians, but I am even more thankful for the Great Physician!

Now the heart I really want to talk about is your spiritual heart. Is your heart right with God? Are you sure? Have you ignored the medical help the Great Physician gives for this spiritual heart problem you have?

No, it is not a genetic defect! However, we all sin and fall short of His glory (Romans 3:23). And we are given the cure for sin in our lives.

Will you follow the Great Physician, or will you just stick your head in the proverbial sand and ignore Him?

Do you need open-heart surgery?

One of these days you may be very sorry if you don't!