So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. (Rom. 14:8)
Expanded Passage: Romans 14:7-8
One of the earliest Christian writings outside the New Testament is an account of the martyrdom of Polycarp. As a young man, he had learned the Christian faith from the apostle John. In his later years, Polycarp had become the leader of the congregation in Smyrna, a city in Asia Minor. When persecution of Christians became intense, his followers concealed him in the country until he was discovered, arrested, and brought before the Roman magistrate. Entering the arena, he heard the shouts of the crowd: “To the lions!” The magistrate took pity upon the frail condition of this elderly pastor and offered him an option. Utter a curse against Christ, and Polycarp would be released. Without hesitating he replied, “For eighty-six years I have been his servant, and he has done me no wrong. How can I swear against the King who has saved me?” Faithful to the end, he was tied to the stake and burned.
What a testimony of one who both lived and died for the Lord. You and I are not likely to face such threats of persecution, although there are those in other places who are present-day martyrs for the faith. But we, like Polycarp, can live each day for the Lord, so that we might end our lives with the same triumphant testimony—that whether living or dying, we belong to the Lord.
Remember to pray for those who risk their lives for Christ’s sake.
Clarence (Bud) Bence is a retired Wesleyan pastor and college professor, and lives with his wife, Carol, in Marion, Indiana.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
