Pushback doesn’t always mean persecution

Hi, I’m Bryn Joslin, a Bible nerd trying to better understand my Bible and help others do the same. Today, I want to explore a common misconception: Just because you receive pushback for what you say doesn’t mean you’re being persecuted.

The Bible on Persecution

The Bible has a lot to say about persecution. Jesus regularly warned his disciples that they would face persecution, and in the Beatitudes, He says:

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Persecution was a recurring theme in Jesus’ teachings because He wanted His followers to be prepared for the challenges of living faithfully in a fallen world. He knew that the kingdom values of love, humility, and justice often run counter to the values of the world, and this tension would inevitably lead to conflict.

Similarly, in Paul’s letters, he frequently recounts the persecution he endured—both from those outside the church and from within. His hardships included beatings, imprisonment, and rejection, yet Paul consistently used his experiences to encourage others to persevere in their faith. This has led many Christians to argue that being persecuted is proof that what they are doing is right, since the Bible says believers who follow Jesus will face opposition.

However, 1 Peter offers a more nuanced perspective.

A Message from 1 Peter

1 Peter speaks to its readers as though they are exiles in a foreign and hostile land. This imagery emphasises that Christians are called to live differently from the surrounding culture, embodying values that reflect God’s kingdom. Like much of the New Testament, it assumes that believers will face persecution. It encourages Christians not to rebel or fight against the culture but to reshape it from the inside out by demonstrating a better, more loving, and godly way of living.

Interestingly, 1 Peter challenges the idea that persecution itself is evidence of righteousness. In 1 Peter 4:15, we read:

“But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, a criminal, or even as a mischief maker.”

In other words, if you’re being persecuted, make sure it’s not because you’re behaving poorly. This admonition invites believers to examine their actions and intentions carefully, ensuring that their suffering comes from faithfulness to God’s call rather than from their own faults or misconduct.

Persecution vs. Pushback

Unfortunately, some Christians fall into the trap of being intentionally antagonistic to provoke reactions from others. When they face pushback, they label it persecution, claiming it’s evidence of their righteousness. But in many cases, it’s just the natural response to rudeness or unkindness.

It’s important to recognise the distinction between genuine persecution for righteousness’ sake and the consequences of poor behaviour. True persecution arises when people oppose your faithfulness to God’s way of life. Pushback, on the other hand, often results from unnecessary provocation or a lack of grace in how we interact with others.

1 Peter teaches us a better way. If fellow Christians behave this way, we’re called to respond with gentleness and love. As 1 Peter advises:

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

Our goal is to lovingly challenge their behaviour and guide them toward a more Christlike way of living. This doesn’t mean avoiding difficult conversations but approaching them with humility and a desire to build others up rather than tear them down.

What If You’re Accused?

Ironically, if you lovingly challenge someone’s unkind actions, they might accuse you of persecuting them. If that happens, you’re now experiencing genuine persecution for doing what is right. This reversal of roles highlights the complexity of navigating interpersonal conflicts within the faith community.

And what does 1 Peter tell us to do in such situations? Leave them to it and be an example of a better way. The call to be an example isn’t passive; it’s an active commitment to living out the gospel in every area of life. By embodying Christ’s love, patience, and humility, we show others a transformative way to respond to conflict and opposition.

We don’t transform the world—or fellow Christians—by defeating them with arguments. We do it by loving them and living out a better way. This approach doesn’t mean compromising on truth but presenting it in a way that reflects God’s grace and compassion.

A Final Encouragement

As we navigate the challenges of living faithfully in a complex world, let’s remember the wisdom of 1 Peter. Whether facing genuine persecution or engaging with fellow believers who may misunderstand us, our response matters. We’re called to be people of peace, humility, and love, reflecting the character of Christ in all we do.