CC#43--What Tertullian Knew: Modern Martyrdom in Minneapolis
Description
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The wisdom of Tertullian echoes through centuries: "The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church." These words, penned around 200 AD, have found tragic relevance in our modern world where Christian persecution continues unabated.
Startling statistics reveal a disturbing reality—over half of the estimated 70 million Christians martyred throughout history lost their lives in the 20th century alone. And the 21st century shows no signs of improvement. The Family Research Council documented 1,384 acts of hostility against churches in the United States since January 2018. Last year witnessed 383 churches suffering 415 attacks across 43 states, including vandalism, arson, gun violence, and bomb threats.
Most heartbreaking is the recent tragedy at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, where a shooter killed two innocent children—Harper Moiskey, a joyful 10-year-old big sister, and Fletcher Merkel, an 8-year-old boy who loved sports—and injured 17 others. These young martyrs join countless others whose faith placed them in harm's way.
As religious liberty transforms from a unifying American ideal into a polarizing debate topic, and as the unchurched population grows by 12% over two decades, we face a mounting cultural and spiritual crisis. The hostility aims to undercut America's biblical foundations, challenging the moral pillars upon which our country stands.
This darkness calls for courage and faith—virtues essential not only for a flourishing life but for preserving the truth in troubled times. The moment for silence has passed. Our voices must rise in defense of family, faith, and freedom. We must pray for our society to regain respect for the sacred while standing firm in our convictions.
Will you join us in speaking truth to darkness? In honoring the martyrs by living boldly? Subscribe to hear more reflections on navigating faith in challenging times, and share this message with those who need encouragement to stand strong.
Key Points from the Episode:
• 383 churches endured 415 attacks across 43 states last year alone
• Attacks included 284 acts of vandalism, 55 incidents of arson, and 28 gun-related attacks
• California led the nation with 40 attacks, followed by Pennsylvania, Florida, and New York
• The tragic Minneapolis Catholic school shooting claimed the lives of two children: Harper (10) and Fletcher (8)
• Religious liberty, once a unifying American ideal, has become the center of polemical debate
• Cultural shifts show the unchurched population increasing by 12% over two decades
• Our response must be courage to speak truth into darkness and stand firm in faith
Keep praying and fighting the good fight. Our voices must rise today and at the ballot box in defense of family, faith, and freedom.
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