THE PERSECUTED CHURCH SERIES
Over the last two we have all heard the about intensification of the persecution of Christians in the middle-east especially in countries like Iraq, Syria etc. Persecution is not a new experience for Christians. Ever since the beginning of the new-testament church age, many Christians have been persecuted and killed for Christ throughout history. Jesus tells us "If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you"-John 15:20b .
So, in light of the reality of persecution in the church, its critical that we focus on the issue of persecution as the church of God. Many times in the West we are not very focused on the issue of persecution and suffering but Christ doesn't want us to forget our brothers and sisters around the world. As a church in DC we have made a decision over the next two weeks to focus on the issue of persecution. By the grace of God through our sermon series, prayers and giving we hope to make a small dent on this global issue. Many centuries ago, St. Francis of Assisi prayed this prayer" Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love". Through our sermons, prayers and giving we also echo the heart of his prayers by praying this simple prayer"Lord make us an instrument of peace and love".
So, in light of the reality of persecution in the church, its critical that we focus on the issue of persecution as the church of God. Many times in the West we are not very focused on the issue of persecution and suffering but Christ doesn't want us to forget our brothers and sisters around the world. As a church in DC we have made a decision over the next two weeks to focus on the issue of persecution. By the grace of God through our sermon series, prayers and giving we hope to make a small dent on this global issue. Many centuries ago, St. Francis of Assisi prayed this prayer" Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love". Through our sermons, prayers and giving we also echo the heart of his prayers by praying this simple prayer"Lord make us an instrument of peace and love".
WEEKLY MESSAGES
GIVE TO THE PERSECUTED CHURCHes
Here are some suggestions of reputable organizations around the world that have giving platform directed towards persecuted churches around the globe.