The Cost of Grace: Persecution as Part of the Christian Faith
Although not often preached today, suffering and persecution are intrinsic to Christian discipleship. Jesus Himself foretold suffering for His followers, early Church Fathers, like Tertullian, viewed suffering as a badge of honor and a means of testifying to the truth of Christianity, and suffering through persecution provides every Christian a means to prove and strengthen his or her faith. Martyrdom is not mere endurance; it is participation in the redemptive work of Christ.
