Bethesda Shalom

Acts 8:1-4 North Korea ranks first place in its relentless, systematic persecution of Christians via its communist dictator Kim Jong Un.  Worship of the ruling Kim family is mandatory for all, and those failing to comply are imprisoned, tortured or killed.  Across the Muslim world in countries such as Somalia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Iran and Yemen; those daring to leave the ranks of Islam are martyred for their faith in Jesus Christ.  The only thing that sets them apart from us in the West is mere location!  Yet, we see in my own country of Great Britain, the storm clouds beginning to gather momentum and increased levels of persecution arising on the back of so called “British Values” and “Diversity”.  What is our response to be when persecution comes to our doorstep on account of our faith in Jesus Christ?  Do we stay or do we go?  Do we stand and remain or do we retreat and flee?  This sermon seeks to bring a balanced and biblical answer to this question that will serve to help prepare t