Peter Barnes | Matthew 10:17-26
SERMON NOTES
RESPONDING TO PERSECUTION
2 Kings 6:8-23; Matthew 10:17-26
– opposition from Jews, Gentiles, family, and everyone
1. Do not be anxious because the Spirit will help you.
– 10:19-20; see Acts 4:7-12 for Peter
– About the year 165 Justin Martyr was brought before the prefect of Rome, Rusticus, who mocked him along the lines of expecting to be resurrected if he were beheaded. He asked: ‘Do you then think that you will ascend to heaven, to receive certain rewards?’ Justin replied: ‘I do not think, I know and am fully persuaded.’
2. Persevere to the end.
– 10:22; see Matt.13:20-22 for professing Christians who did not endure to the end
3. Flee if you have to.
– 10:23; verse 23b is referring to the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 or the resurrection, not the Second Coming
– examples of fleeing in Acts 14:5-6; 17:13-14; Cyprian in 250
4. Do not fear.
– 10:26; why not? Because we are to fear the judge (Matt.25:46; Heb.4:13)