No matter where you live today, it is becoming clear that the world is turning against Christianity. Governments, cultural leaders, and influencers mock or reject biblical truth. Other religions are largely tolerated, but Christianity is increasingly viewed as intolerant, outdated, or even dangerous. So, how should Christians respond to persecution?
In the United States, this hostility is evident in entertainment, politics, and social movements. What once was a nation shaped by Christian principles now openly ridicules them. This shift isn’t just happening in America—it is a global movement that has gained momentum over the last two decades.
So, how should Christians respond when governments enact laws that contradict God’s Word? What should we do when society pressures us to compromise our faith?
The Bible gives clear guidance. Jesus Himself warned us that following Him would bring opposition:
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12, ESV)
Persecution is not new. It is part of the Christian walk. However, our response must not be fear, anger, or retaliation. Instead, we must stand firm in faith, remembering that our reward is in heaven.
Submission to Authority vs. Obedience to God
While the world moves further from God, we must remember that earthly authorities exist under His sovereignty. Romans 13 reminds us that government has a role in maintaining order:
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” (Romans 13:1, ESV)
This passage teaches us that, as long as government does not require us to sin, we should respect the laws of the land. Christians should not be known for lawlessness but for integrity, honesty, and respect.
However, when human laws conflict with God’s commands, we must follow God’s higher authority. The apostles demonstrated this in Acts 5:29 when they were ordered to stop preaching about Jesus:
“We must obey God rather than men.”
Our obedience to God takes precedence, but we should not be reckless or defiant in doing so. Instead, we must stand firm while maintaining a Christlike attitude—bold in truth, yet humble in spirit.
Rejecting the Spirit of Revenge
One of the hardest lessons for Christians, especially in places where we once held cultural influence, is learning that we are not called to “take back” our country for Christ by force or political power. Many voices today claim that Christian nationalism is the answer—that we must fight to restore a “Christian nation.” But the Bible tells us something different:
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’” (Romans 12:17-19, ESV)
Jesus did not call us to be warriors in a political battle. Instead, He called us to be ambassadors—representatives of His kingdom, bringing the message of reconciliation.
Living as Ambassadors of Christ
An ambassador does not try to overthrow the government of the country they are sent to. Instead, they represent the values and interests of their homeland while respecting the land in which they temporarily reside.
As Christians, we are citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20), and we are here on earth as ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). That means:
- We obey the laws and customs of our host country, unless they require us to disobey God.
- We do not violate God’s laws, but we also do not make a spectacle of ourselves when standing firm in our faith.
- We pay our taxes as required, following Jesus’ command: “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (Mark 12:17, ESV)
- We love our neighbors—even those who oppose us.
- We participate in government when possible—in democratic nations, that means voting.
If we have the privilege of voting, we should support leaders who uphold religious freedom, allowing the Gospel to spread without restriction. If a candidate openly opposes Christianity, we should seek alternatives. However, we must remember that no political leader is our savior. Only Christ is King.
The World Is Not Improving—But We Should Not Fear
Many people believe that society will eventually “progress” into a utopia of peace and unity. But the Bible warns that, in the last days, the world will drift further into rebellion against God.
Romans 1 describes how mankind, when rejecting God, falls deeper into sin and depravity. This is exactly what we see today—moral confusion, hostility toward truth, and celebration of sin. But we should not be discouraged. Jesus told us these things would happen, and He also told us to stand firm:
“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, ESV)
This world is not our home. We are here for a short time, called to be light in the darkness. Our job is not to fix the world—it is to proclaim the Gospel and live faithfully until Jesus returns.
Stay Focused on the Mission
So, what should we do as the world grows darker?
- Do not panic. God is still in control.
- Do not compromise. Stand firm in your faith.
- Do not retaliate. Overcome evil with good.
- Do not lose focus. Our mission is to make disciples, not win political battles.
- Do not lose hope. Jesus is coming soon.
The world will continue to deteriorate, but we have the hope of Christ’s return. Our job is to remain faithful until that day.
Are you ready? Stay alert, stay faithful, and keep your eyes on Jesus.the world. They must happen for Jesus to come back and liberate creation from sin for a time (1000 years to be exact), at which point he will completely rid creation of sin forever!
Additional Resources:
Obeying Government in a Wicked World
Last Days Danger: Falling Away from the Faith
Preparing for Persecution – Love Worth Finding
