When Canadian Pastor Tim Stephens refused to stop preaching the Gospel, authorities hauled him away to jail as his children looked on sobbing.
A large group of peaceful protestors surrounded the jail and prayed for his release – and by God’s grace, they ended up letting him go!
Now a free man, Pastor Stephens reflects on his time locked away – and sends a warning every Christian needs to hear.
During COVID-19, leftist authorities did everything they could to shut down churches.
And when pastors refused to stop preaching the Gospel, they were locked up.
When Tim Stephens decided to hold his worship services outdoors – arresting officers claimed he was “violating orders” and put him in jail.
Christians around the world prayed for his release – and by the incredible grace of God, Pastor Stephens was set free!
In an emotional sermon to his congregation after his release, Pastor Stephens discussed Matthew 10 and warned how Christians will be persecuted for their faith.
He reflected on his time in jail, and never once waivered on his decision to stand for the Gospel and keep preaching God’s Word.
Christian Headlines reported:
“The last 17 nights I’ve spent in jail,” he said, “have given me opportunities to declare the glory of Christ, within and without. [There] never has been a time in my life when I’ve been so hated by people. But never has there been a time in my life when I felt so loved by people [at] the same time. Don’t fear men. Shout from the rooftops that Jesus Christ is King of all kings.”
Amen.
The government may come and shut the doors of churches, ban Bibles, lock up pastors, and in some countries, even kill Christians…
… but God’s Word never returns void.
We know how the story ends, and we know Christ has already won the battle.
But there will come a time when a follower of Jesus may be called to risk everything to make His name known.
We shouldn’t be surprised when persecution comes.
As Christians, we can rest in the peace of God knowing He is sovereign.
When Tim Stephens faith was put to the test, he didn’t back down.
Instead, he demonstrated a spirit of gratitude and gave glory to God.
CBN News reported:
“[M]ost of all, I’m thankful for God,” he said. “I’m thankful that He’s built His church, that He’s sustained our church at Fairview Baptist Church. I’m thankful that He strengthened me, my wife, and our family, and that, through this, people have come to know the saving love of the Lord Jesus Christ. People have been strengthened in this country and around the world, and so, for these many reasons, I’m thankful.”
God bless you, Pastor Stephens.
We wish you and your family well as you continue to do the Lord’s work.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17
To stay current on the latest Christian Life Daily stories, follow us on Facebook and be sure to like and share our posts!
