Throughout history Jesus has used circumstances and troublesome seasons to strengthen disciples and expand the church. The early months and years of the church were filled with turmoil, suffering and martyrdom. During the first few centuries of the church’s existence, the world endured a multitude of pandemics.
Throughout the centuries one hardship after another hit the world, but the church continued to grow and prosper. Through plagues, famines, fires, earthquakes, wars and persecution the church continued to grow. Decade after decade more and more people found hope in the life, death, burial, resurrection, teaching and example of Jesus.
During WWII and the Korean conflict, the church continued to grow. Many of the largest churches in the world are in Korea, and Korean churches rank among the top missionary sending churches in the world. The revolutions and persecutions throughout the 20th century of Chinese believers didn’t weaken the church - the church in China grew in strength and number.
The Apostle Peter wrote to mid-first century followers of Jesus: “These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold.” 1 Peter 1:7 (NLT)
The church will come out of the current pandemic, and financial crisis strengthened. Jesus declared: “I will build my church and the Gates of Hell will not stop me!” (Matt’s paraphrase)
Let Jesus strengthen you as your trust and faith are tested.
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