“I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33]
Do not fear. God is in charge. His enemies—the devil, the world, and sinful flesh—have been defeated. Jesus died. Jesus rose. Jesus ascended. Jesus is coming again. Thus, not even the gates of hell shall prevail against His Church.
Despite the world’s hostility, depravity, and ungodliness, you have nothing to fear, O Christian. Christ is in control. He is in control when the world loves you. He is in control when the world hates you. Do you really believe the Gospel? Or do you only believe it when there is no persecution, oppression, or martyrdom? Repent of your mistrust, doubt, and unbelief. And look anew to Christ. His Word of absolution, His Gospel, His body and blood given and shed for you are proof that He is in charge, that the victory is His, that the victory is yours!
Rejoice, O Christian, that you have been “counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name” (Acts 5:41).
The Word they still shall let remain nor any thanks have for it;
He’s by our side upon the plain with His good gifts and Spirit.
And take they our life, goods, fame, child, and wife,
Though these all be gone, our vict’ry has been won;
The Kingdom ours remaineth.
[LSB 656, stanza 4]
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