Is it possible that a government would show favoritism to those who abandon God? Would a government of man destroy places of worship to God? Would one of us, a human being, flatter and praise godly people who forsake godly living? Would there be anyone to resist such corruption? Could deceivers infiltrate the godly and betray their trust? Could godly people die martyrs’ deaths?
Yes, there, will always be agents of the evil one in high places and with much power who seek to destroy God’s people.
The Lord gave Daniel a prophecy about Antiochus IV Epiphanes long before he rose to power. And, yes, he did carry out atrocities against people who were faithful to God.
“…therefore he [Antiochus IV Epiphanes] will be discouraged and turn back [to Israel] …and show favoritism toward those [Jews] who abandon (break) the holy covenant [with God].
Armed forces of his will arise [in Jerusalem] and defile and desecrate the sanctuary, the [spiritual] stronghold, and will do away with the regular sacrifice [that is, the daily burnt offering]; and they will set up [a pagan altar in the sanctuary which is] the abomination of desolation.
With smooth words [of flattery and praise] he will turn to godlessness those who [are willing to] disregard the [Mosaic] covenant, but the people who [are spiritually mature and] know their God will display strength and act [to resist]. They who are wise and have spiritual insight among the people will instruct many and help them understand; yet for many days some [of them and their followers] will fall by the sword and by flame, by captivity and by plunder. Now when they fall, they will receive a little help, and many will join them in hypocrisy. Some of those who are [spiritually] wise and have insight will fall [as martyrs] in order to refine, to purge and to make those among God’s people pure, until the end time; because it is yet to come at the time appointed [by God].” [1]
Thankfully, Antiochus IV Epiphanes and his regime are no more. However, after the Romans defeated the Greeks, the Romans persecuted the people of God. Nero burned Christians alive to light his garden at night. He also fed them to wild animals. He forced Christians parents to watch their children suffer.
Let us pray for persecuted Christians: “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.” [2]
When the Apostle Peter was imprisoned, constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. In response to the church’s prayers, the Lord sent His angel, and delivered him from King Herod and from the expectation of those who wanted him to die.” [3]
Pray that God would sustain their faith: “The one who endures to the end will be saved.” [4]
Pray for the spread of the Gospel: “…Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” [5]
Pray for pastors as they are primary targets of persecution: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.” [6]
Jesus invites us to continually come before God with prayers for justice. [7]
Pray that God will provide for their needs. “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” [8]
More information is available through Voice of the Martyrs and Open Doors.
[1] Daniel 11:30-35 Amplified Bible
[2] Hebrews 13:3
[3] Acts 12:5, 11
[4] Matthew 10:22
[5] 1 Peter 3:15
[6] Mark 14:27
[7] Luke 18:1–8
[8] 3 John 1:2
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