“Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.” (James 5:10)
Many of the Old Testament prophets suffered physical abuse and death at the hands of those whom they were attempting to bring back to the righteous path and save from death or captivity.
John the Baptist was the last of the Old Testament prophets. As a result of his telling Herod that it was not lawful for him to have his brother’s wife, John was cast into prison and then beheaded.
Many Godly pastors today around the world and here at home are suffering at the hands of churches and those outside the church because the messenger’s message is not pleasing to everyone.
James is telling these suffering Christians to whom he is addressing this epistle to be like the prophets: faithful, courageous and patient as they face and endure suffering for Jesus.
Take courage, Christian servant. Endure afflictions. Be a faithful servant of the Lord.
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