Day 3
Reading: Mark 13:1–23
SOAP: Mark 13:10–11
First the gospel must be preached to all nations. When they arrest you and hand you over for trial, do not worry about what to speak. But say whatever is given you at that time, for it is not you speaking but the Holy Spirit.
Jesus warned His disciples of what was to come. He warned them of the coming persecution they, and we, would endure for the gospel. Before these things would happen, the gospel would be preached to all nations. Jesus’ return would begin when the gospel had been preached to the ends of the earth.
Even though Jesus told them persecution would come, His followers still proclaimed His name. Through imprisonment, beatings, and killings, the gospel spread, not because it was dependent on human action, but because of the work of the Holy Spirit.
The Christian life is not easy (Jn 16:33). In hardships, persecutions, loss of freedom, and even martyrdom, we can be confident of who Jesus is. Our eternity is secure because of Him, no matter what happens on this earth. He is all we need, and His message is worth any suffering we may endure.
Lord, You promised we would endure hardship for Your name. Give me steadfast faith as I follow You no matter what may come. Help me endure hardship and remain committed to Your glory above my own. Amen.