Growing up in both safe and free Denmark in a Christian family, Paul's teaching on suffering and persecution has not had many points of connection in my own life, and it is only in recent years that I have discovered how much it matters. I want to highlight three important reasons why Paul faced persecution that can be an inspiration to us.
First, he could not and would not stop talking about Jesus in public. He seized the opportunities that were available, such as the speech to the Athenians on the Areopagus (Acts 17). Secondly, Paul dared to confront the spiritual and human oppression and exploitation that took place (see e.g. Acts 16:16f.). Third, Paul backed up his words with concrete acts of love (see 1 Thessalonians 2:3-12). This in particular has always made Christian mission attractive - but also a dangerous competitor - to established religion, for example.
I don't know about you, but all three examples hold plenty of challenge for me in the way I am a Christian in my everyday life. Let's encourage each other to be bold and loving Christians where we are!
Peder Østergård Jensen is Country Secretary in Evangelical Lutheran Mission
