Pastor's Circle - Mark Durie

Dr. Mark Durie, theologian, human rights activist and vicar of St. Mary's Anglican church in Caulfield, Victoria, Australia, came on The Matt Friedeman Show to discuss the persecuted Church. Here are the "CliffsNotes" of his interview.


Why should we be concerned about the persecution of the Church?

It's a very biblical concern. Persecution is one of the major focuses of the New Testament.

I've known a lot of Christians who come from countries that experience persecution.

In my church, we strongly encourage prayer for the persecuted Church.

In the 50 countries in the world where persecution is active, about 40 of them are Muslim, so that's a connection for me.

What about Christianity is so troublesome to Muslims?

Islam is based on the example of Muhammad, and when people stood in his way, he didn't do well.

He commanded Muslims to assume a position of dominance with their faith.

It's a case of the faith shaping the way society works. It's a very deep, difficult issue that goes back 1400 years. That's the heart of it.

At its heart, is it really about the difference between Jesus and Muhammad?

Interestingly, both Jesus and Muhammad suffered a lot of rejection, were opposed and vilified and slandered.

Jesus responded to that in a very interesting way, not trying to revenge himself, but praying for his persecutors.

Muhammad responded with bitterness, and a desire for retribution.

The heart of our faith is the cross. We aren't called to use power to face our rejections.

What can we do to help?

Prayer is very important, and many miracles have happened through prayer.

You need to remember, too, that persecution is not a mistake. If you follow Christ, you need to expect persecution. It's part of the Christian life.

Don't be dismayed, discouraged, intimidated by persecution. Don't give up. It might seem very difficult, but hold your ground.