Philippians 1:12-14 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is because I am in Christ. Most of the brothers have gained confidence in the Lord from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the word fearlessly. Big Idea: Persecution spreads the gospel. Philippians 1:12-13 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is because I am in Christ. God can even use our struggles in life to advance his Kingdom. Acts 8:1 Saul agreed with putting him to death. On that day a severe persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout the land of Judea and Samaria. “Persecution…does but mow the church, which afterward comes up the thicker for it; it is unholiness that ruins it. Persecutors do but plow God’s field for Him while He is sowing it with the blood that they let out.” - William Gurnal Christian in Complete Armor 1 Peter 1:6-7 You rejoice in this, even though now for a short time, if necessary, you suffer grief in various trials so that the proven character of your faith—more valuable than gold which, though perishable, is refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Mark 13:9-13 “But you, be on your guard! They will hand you over to local courts, and you will be flogged in the synagogues. You will stand before governors and kings because of me, as a witness to them. And it is necessary that the gospel be preached to all nations. So when they arrest you and hand you over, don’t worry beforehand what you will say, but say whatever is given to you at that time, for it isn’t you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of my name, but the one who endures to the end will be saved.” Romans 1:25 They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served what has been created instead of the Creator, who is praised forever. Amen. Philippians 1:14 Most of the brothers have gained confidence in the Lord from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the word fearlessly. “God’s children are like torches that show dim in light but burn clear in the dark; (they do so) in prosperity and adversity.…Christians under persecution count that God gives them enough, if He gives them their lives….Persecution is the bellows of the gospel, blowing every spark into a flame; and martyrs ashes are the best compost to fertilize the church.” - Samuel Clark Modern Examples Of Persecution Spreading the Gospel China (20th–21st Century) Context: After the rise of Communism in 1949, Christianity was heavily restricted, and many church leaders were imprisoned. Safely Home by Randy Alcorn. Impact: Despite persecution, the underground church flourished, and China now has one of the largest Christian populations in the world. North Korea (Present Day) Context: Christianity is outlawed, and believers face imprisonment, torture, or execution. Impact: Despite extreme risks, underground churches exist, and North Korean defectors often spread the gospel when they escape. Iran (21st Century) Context: Conversion from Islam to Christianity is illegal, and converts face imprisonment or worse. Impact: The underground church in Iran is reportedly one of the fastest-growing Christian movements globally, driven largely by personal evangelism and digital outreach. Syria and Iraq (ISIS Era, 2014–2019) Context: Under ISIS rule, Christians were systematically targeted, with many fleeing their homes. Impact: Refugee movements led to the spread of Christianity into neighboring countries and Europe. Nigeria (Ongoing) Context: Islamist extremist groups like Boko Haram and Fulani militants frequently target Christian communities. Impact: The resilience and testimony of Nigerian Christians have inspired believers worldwide, with many local churches continuing to grow. Next Step: Am I willing to stand for Christ, even when it is hard? Next Step: I will submit my life to Christ