How Christian churches respond to persecution

The idea

Persecution involves hostility directed at individuals because of their religious beliefs. Christian churches respond to persecution globally through spiritual, practical, and political means. Theologically, many Christians view persecution as a way to share in the sufferings of Jesus, drawing strength from biblical teachings promising blessings for those persecuted for righteousness. Practically, organisations like the Barnabas Fund and Christian Solidarity Worldwide provide vital support. They raise awareness, campaign for human rights, and send financial aid to persecuted communities to help them rebuild or escape danger. Furthermore, churches worldwide engage in intercessory prayer for persecuted believers, demonstrating solidarity and the belief that the global Church is one body.

What earns the marks

• Identify that Christians respond to persecution through prayer, financial aid, and campaigning for human rights.
• Explain the theological perspective that suffering can bring Christians closer to Jesus, who also suffered persecution.
• Reference biblical teachings, such as the Beatitudes, which state that those persecuted for righteousness are blessed.
• Provide examples of Christian charities, such as the Barnabas Fund or Christian Solidarity Worldwide, that actively support persecuted Christians.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Stating that Christians always respond to persecution with violence or retaliation.

  Put it right: Explain that Jesus taught his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them.

• Providing vague answers about helping people.

  Put it right: Name specific organisations like Christian Solidarity Worldwide and detail their specific actions, such as lobbying governments.

• Assuming persecution only happened in biblical times.

  Put it right: Acknowledge that persecution is a current, ongoing issue for many Christian communities globally.

Exam tips

• Memorise at least one specific Christian charity that helps persecuted Christians and be able to describe two ways it provides support.
• Use the teaching 'If one part suffers, every part suffers with it' (1 Corinthians 12:26) to explain why Christians in safe countries support those facing persecution.
• In evaluation questions, consider whether practical aid or spiritual support (like prayer) is the most effective response to persecution.