Yesterday, shortly after WG’s ended at The Bridge, news broke of ISIS releasing a video in which 21 Egyptian Christians – scornfully called “the people of the Cross” by the terrorists  – were marched to a secluded beach and savagely beheaded by men in black masks. After huddling our little family around the computer to talk about it, I was going to write a post. But sometimes a horror is so deep it’s best to place your hand over your mouth, unchain the Bible, and let it speak for itself…

Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God.  – John 16:2

Also I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the word of God… They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.  – Revelation 20:4

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.  – 2 Timothy 3:12

“Whoever does not bear his own [12-inch, serrated knife at his neck] and come after me cannot be my disciple.  – Luke 14:26-27

From [Jesus’] mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations… and he will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty.  – Revelation 19:15

And Saul approved of his execution.  – Acts 8:1

By the power of God, the next Paul (Saul) could be under a black mask in the picture above.

And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.  – Revelation 12:11

Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life… They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were [beheaded by Islamic terrorists]— people of whom the world was not worthy. Hebrews 11:36-38

Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.  – John 12:24

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. – Matthew 5:10