Several New Testament passages explicitly state that persecution will intensify as the end times approach, and that it is an expected part of the Christian life.·        Matthew 24:9 – Jesus warns, “Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name” . This is part of His teaching on the signs of the end times, showing that global opposition to believers will occur.·
John 15:18–20 – “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first… If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also”  This links the treatment of Christ directly to the treatment of His followers.· 
2 Timothy 3:12 – “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted”  Paul affirms persecution as certain for those committed to a godly life.·  
1 Peter 4:12–13 – “Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you… but rejoice… so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed”  This frames persecution as part of sharing in Christ’s sufferings.· 
Revelation 13:7 – “The beast was permitted to wage war against the saints and to conquer them”  This depicts intense, divinely permitted persecution during the end-time tribulation. 
These verses are not isolated; they appear in passages describing the “last days” and the “end times” (e.g., Matthew 24; 2 Timothy 3:1–5) . Jesus and the apostles present persecution as an inevitable consequence of faithful discipleship, not an anomaly. The New Testament encourages believers to expect it, remain steadfast, and find strength in God’s promises. Scripture consistently teaches that as the end times draw near, persecution will increase for those who remain faithful to Christ. These passages are among the clearest warnings, and they call believers to prepare spiritually, live in hope, and endure with courage.  
QUESTIONS:
1.     What attitude are we to have when we face persecution for being obedient to Christ? (Reread Acts 5)
2.     What do you think are the reasons that most Christians in the USA feel persecution is not a part of the modern Christian life?
3.     Do you feel the church does an adequate job of educating Christians that persecution is to be expected in our day?
4.     Why do people believe that when you choose to follow Christ that life gets easy?
5.     Discuss the difference between persecution by Satan for being a follower of Christ, and the torment that will come to earth as the wrath of God.