J.C. Ryle said that another reason we can have patience under persecution is because it is a proof that we are Christ’s people. Here they are told by Jesus that they will bear witness. In bearing witness they would be exposed to persecution and most would die at the hands of a hateful world. While we should not seek persecution, if we find ourselves persecuted for standing for Christ, it should encourage us. This is because we find ourselves standing where Jesus tells us His people would be standing. It is a mark that we are on the right path. Furthermore, persecution is used of God to bring us closer to Him in prayer and in the Word. He uses it to bring us closer to His people in the church as well.
