Counseling for the Soul | Benefiting from His Example | By: José Rojas

Jose Rojas / [e-mail]

“For, as I see it, God has put us apostles last, as men condemned to death. We have become a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.” (1 Corinthians 4:9)

When we look back at the history of the great martyr period of the church, we realize that every one of the apostles (except John) faced a violent death as they gave their lives for Jesus and the advancement of the church.

For example, James was beheaded by King Agrippa (Acts 12:2), and although the Bible records no other deaths, history tells us that Peter was crucified upside down by Nero; Philip was crucified and then stoned to death; and Bartholomew (also known as Nathanael) suffered the double sentence of being flayed alive and crucified. Neither the Bible nor history actually tells us how Paul died. However, church tradition indicates that Paul was captured in Europe and returned to Rome where he was also killed.

With insight into the events to come Paul wrote, “We have become a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.” I think “spectacle” refers to us today. In other words, we are the spectators. God allowed these men to suffer greatly so that we would watch, benefit, and be blessed by their sacrifice.

I am often fascinated by the spectacular courage displayed by the apostles as they advanced the message of salvation through faith in Jesus. We too are called to defend our faith against the way of the world. How can you do that this week? What is the Lord calling you to? How will you respond?

Source: Testament League