By: The Rev. Dr. W. Ross Blackburn
To Timothy, Paul wrote “all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). Ever the realist, Paul wanted Timothy to know what to expect as a Christian, so that he might not be caught off guard and fall into despair or self-doubt. The reason, of course, that Christians will suffer persecution is the same as the reason Jesus did: “[the world] hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil” (John 7:7).
One of the striking aspects of the conflict over abortion in the US is the character of the movements that call themselves pro-life and pro-choice. Pro-life gatherings are often prayerful and family oriented (folks often bring their children), hymns are sung, and abortion advocates are treated without contempt, even prayed for. Pro-choice gatherings are generally more austere (although not more serious), children are largely absent, slogans are chanted, and there is usually voiced contempt for pro-life advocates. Are there exceptions on both sides? Of course. But that’s the general character of the respective movements. If you are curious, do an Internet survey of the signs carried by each side. It’s telling.
Pro-life work can often be discouraging. The more serious the church becomes about defending the fatherless and pleading for the widow, the more opposition she will encounter. We will be misunderstood, called insensitive and sexist, told that we don’t care about women (or that we are participating in a “war on women”), and that we have no right to impose our views upon others. Some might even compare us to Hitler. For some, the opposition will extend further than verbal contempt. But, just as for Paul, opposition will authenticate our witness and commend the cause of the vulnerable in the eyes of those watching.
This is the way God has chosen to make himself known. It is not despite opposition and persecution, but often because of opposition and persecution that God’s work goes forth. What was true for Paul was true for Jesus. To use one example, the thief on the cross appears to have recognized that Jesus was the Christ precisely because he did not curse, but blessed, those who crucified him: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
You who are discouraged, remember that opposition is often the means by which God works. So take heart, press on, and make sure that, like Paul, you act in such a manner that you can commend yourself in every way.