Trip reflections: Turkey and danger

A sober look at global faithfulness serves as a mirror for believers who often forget the cost of following Christ. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar consider the weight of persecution as they reflect on how Christians in Turkey face real danger for sharing the gospel, a stark contrast to the ease of access in the United States. They note that believers in Muslim contexts live with constant questions about government intervention, yet persecution has unified the small Christian remnant. The guys affirm that it is understandable to feel nervous when sharing the gospel, since even Paul had concerns but still chose to obey God rather than man.

The conversation shifts to what fuels courage, and the guys return to the cross where hostility met perfect love. They discuss how raising God's truths often sparks tension, which is why gentleness is crucial. Jesus warned that the world would hate His followers just as it hated Him, yet His response to persecution was marked by sacrifice and humility. The early church served instead of retaliating, but once Christianity was Romanized, this attitude changed; the guys encourage believers to recover a Christlike way of fighting for truth, especially when loving enemies feels unnatural.

They then consider what believers should do when hostility comes from family. The call is to understand the other person’s perspective while remaining faithful. Jesus delivered a perfect message and was still rejected, so modern believers should expect the same. The guys warn that Christians can invite ridicule by arguing instead of witnessing, forgetting that they, too, once stood opposed to the gospel. A humble heart aims to make the message clear so the lost might see their need for the Savior and trust God to bring salvation. Evangelism and discipleship go together, shaped by sincerity and reliance on the Lord.

Finally, the guys note that many present-day atheists are less focused on the existence of God and more on social and cultural issues, which is why understanding cultural questions is important. Early believers lacked legal protection but relied on the Spirit, and the guys highlight prayer as the true source of strength. Oscar recalls moments when God made him feel incapable so he would depend on the Lord, while E.Z. often prays that unnecessary anxiousness would be removed. Authenticity cannot be faked, and believers should pray both before and after sharing the gospel. The call is to look to God’s greatness, not the world’s resistance, remembering that faithfulness often invites opposition rather than applause.

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Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro