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And a double portion for the descendents of Joseph. His rise as a foreigner in Egypt is one of the most phenomenal stories in the Bible. In modern day theology the cart is placed before the horse. Success is easily achieved without tears, toils and much opposition. Joseph, the fruitful one, was to experience the most disheartening type of opposition and jealousy, that from within. From his own brothers. All because he was younger and greatly beloved of his Father. Spiritual integrity and holiness were certainly predominant in his life, thus becoming a source of conviction for his unrighteous brothers. Lets take a peek at the Word of the Lord. For one thing it declares that ALL who would live godly in Christ SHALL suffer persecution. 2 Tim. 3:12 Most everyone is taught today that we will be raptured not having been persecuted at all. The growth factor, the manifold blessing of persecution is the settling, or the establishment of a foundation in the life of the individual. They are strengthened in the spiritual nature for they will overcome. Nothing like a victory to build confidence. They become established, steadfast and knowledgeable in their conduct before the Lord. They make the proper spiritual adjustments which lead them to perfection or maturity before the Lord. 1 Peter 5:10 Persecution builds spiritual character.
Church, hear the Word of the Lord, you will be persecuted. Jesus said so.
In what He determined to be the beginning of sorrows, or prior to the great tribulation, at the time just before the introduction to the tribulation, as well as during the tribulation, there will be persecution. They will deliver you up to be afflicted or troubled. You shall be hated of all nations and be killed. Brethren will hate and betray one another. Mt. 24:9-10 The doctrine of an easy rapture does not agree with the words of the Lord Jesus. Consequently, the church is not prepared for future events of trial and opposition. Seriously consider these things. Rev. 17:6 Introduces us to that which takes place during that great tribulation and it relates to the martyrs of Jesus who are slain during that period of time by the false church. Tribulation martyrs. Rev. 20:4 When the devil is cast out of heaven he turns on the woman, the church to persecute her but she is delivered by the power of the Spirit. Rev. 12:11-14 These are they who came out of great tribulation. Rev. 7:14 Then there are those who stand on the sea of glass mingled with fire who resisted receiving the number name or mark of the antichrist. That can mean only one thing, they faced receiving the stamp but refused to do so, thus, they became victorious. Rev. 15:2-3.