Then Jesus disciples said, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God.”
“Do you now believe?” Jesus replied. “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me. John 16:29-32
Jesus is predicting what will happen right before his crucifixion. In their hearts they’re denying it but we’ve read the rest of the book. They do indeed desert Jesus in his toughest hour.
I believe in the near future there will be a similar scattering within the church. We see a little of it not but when the Government comes down forcefully against Christians, many will be scattered and disoriented over it. Knowing that it is coming is merely half the battle; deciding what you will do is the other and more difficult task. No one knows what they will do in situations unless they are in them already but it doesn’t hurt to consider the potential outcomes now.
Like the Disciples must have thought, so we think that we would never retreat from the Christian life. They were fearful and timid, just like we might tend to be under pressure. So, what’s the solution to being an Overcomer?
First, realize you are not in this battle alone. Of course the Holy Spirit is our helper but He has put many Believers in our path who feel as strongly about these types of matters as we do. Now is the time to build stronger and more secure relationships.
Secondly, begin to recognize persecution as it comes in small doses. Opposition to an idea is not persecution. Fining you or imprisoning you for your beliefs is.
Lastly, begin praying now that you will not, with the Holy Spirit’s help, under any circumstances shirk your responsibilities as a Believer.
I understand that this could very well be all academic, but as sin and lawlessness continue to increase, so is our ability to “read the times.”