Death of Paul the Apostle

Jesus makes it clear that if we follow Him, we will suffer for Him (Matthew 5:10-12).  2 Timothy 3:12 says that all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer.  1 Peter 4:12-19 encourages believers to be willing to suffer for righteousness sake.  Read the encouraging testimony of Paul the Apostle in 2 Corinthians 4:7-11 and how he suffered for the name of Jesus.

Death of William Tyndale

All of the above testifies to us that we must take up our cross and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23-25).  The way is narrow and the path difficult for those who choose to follow the Lamb of God (Matthew 7:13-14) but how wonderful the blessings are in eternity to come (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).  Romans 8:18 tells us that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.  How wonderful it will be when all of the elect of God are gathered around His throne in worship of Him (Revelation 5:9-10) and we are able to rejoice in He who took away our sins.  What rejoicing there will be for Jesus!  All the suffering of this life will be nothing compared to eternity with Him.

Death of Peter the Apostle

So stand up Christian and be willing to suffer for the kingdom of God!  Rejoice that your name is written in the Lamb's book of life (Luke 10:19) and rejoice that soon He will judge the world in righteousness.