A Martyr’s Grace By Marvin J Newell – The Middle East:
What is your motivation for shepherding?
I’ve mentioned previously the moment in which I came to Christ. At the 2011 Gateway Family Retreat, five principals of Christianity were on display (not necessarily in the following order).
- Service
- Worship
- Fellowship
- Discipleship
- Evangelism
I have always looked at these five principals and asked myself, “How am I doing?” Sadly, discipleship and evangelism have always been at the bottom of the list. I believe that Discipleship and Evangelism are part of the natural progression when it comes to shepherding others.
Additionally, there is probably nothing I want more in this world than to be used by God. I know that God uses me and that often I don’t get to see the fruit. But some of my most joyous memories are those in which I knew that God had used me to shape the life of someone else and to bring Himself glory.
Last but certainly not least, I want to obey God. Jesus tells us to “go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19) – The word disciple comes from a Latin word that means “Pupil” or “learner.” The more I learn about discipleship, and the more I learn about shepherding, the more I realize that it is impossible to obey Christ’s command in the great commission without shepherding.
Who is Bonnie Witherall?
Bonnie was an American missionary who served in Sidon Lebanon, where she was martyred in 2002. She served in a prenatal clinic and cared for disadvantaged pregnant women, and she had a close relationship with God and often journaled her prayers to him. A lone gunman murdered Bonnie as she walked to the clinic one morning. Her martyrdom leaves no doubt that her service to Christ was impacting the community in which she served. Not only that but, as we read in this chapter, her story has continued to lead several others to devote their own lives to serve Christ as well.
What is a martyr?
A martyr is someone who suffers and dies because of their devotion to Christ.
What can you find in scripture about martyrs?
Stephen is the first to come to mind. Stoned to death after preaching the gospel. (Acts 7:54-60)
Cain was the first martyr recorded in the Old Testament. Killed by his brother Abel due to his jealousy that God was pleased by Cain’s offering but not his own. (Genesis 4:1-16)
Zachariah, the prophet. Jesus tells us that he was “murdered between the sanctuary and the altar.” (Matthew 23:34-35, 2 Chronicles 24:20-22)
John the Baptist was the first martyr recorded in the New Testament. Herod Imprisoned him for speaking against his marriage to his sister-in-law. Though hesitant, Herod had him beheaded at the request of his stepdaughter (niece?), who was motivated by her mother. (Matthew 14:1-12)
James, the brother of John, was stabbed by King Herod. (Acts 1:1-2)
The two witnesses. Killed by the beast after preaching the truth of God for 1260 days. (Revelation 11:1-14)
There will be many more martyrs during the time of tribulation. (Revelation 6:9-11)
The Martyrs will reign with Christ during the millennial kingdom (Revelation 20:4)