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The following blog is a summary of a message preached by Pastor Eddie Lawrence.

Watch the Sermon HERE!

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's tragic death, we are reminded of a sobering truth: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21). This powerful decree from Scripture offers guidance during times when darkness seems to prevail.

A Pattern Throughout History

The silencing of voices that speak truth is not new. The 1960s were marked by similar tragedies - JFK in 1963, Malcolm X in 1965, Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968, and Robert Kennedy just two months after King. These assassinations created a tumultuous atmosphere of fear and division.

This pattern continues throughout history. Charlie Kirk, a bold apologist for the Christian faith and traditional values, had just finished sharing Scripture about how "Christ is our life" minutes before his life was taken. Whether we agreed with all his positions or not, we can agree that America must be better than silencing voices through violence.

What Does Scripture Say About Martyrs?

The Bible shows us this pattern has existed since ancient times:

  • In 2 Chronicles 24:20-21, Zechariah was stoned to death in the court of the Lord's house for speaking truth to power.
  • Stephen, in Acts 7, was stoned while calling on God and asking forgiveness for his murderers.
  • Jesus himself lamented in Matthew 23: "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her."

 

Whether by nails (crucifixion), stones, or bullets, the spirit behind silencing truth-tellers remains the same. Jesus described such places as "where Satan dwells" (Revelation 2:13).

How Should Christians Respond to Persecution?

When facing opposition or witnessing tragedy, our response matters deeply:

1. Prayer Must Be Our First Response

In moments of national grief and confusion, we must "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Pray for:

  • Those who are brokenhearted
  • Charlie's family and colleagues
  • Young people who followed his teaching
  • Truth to be proclaimed more boldly
  • Revival fires to spread

 

2. Respond Righteously to Opposition

Jesus taught us to "bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you." This means responding in an opposite spirit - not returning hate for hate. Charlie exemplified this by inviting those who disagreed with him to speak first, listening before responding.

Guard your tongue in conversations and your fingertips when online. Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom before responding.

3. See the Bigger Picture of God's Plan

Romans 8:28 reminds us that "all things work together for good to those who love God." This doesn't mean God causes evil - He is holy and does not commit or cause evil. But in His omnipotence and omniscience, He can turn terrible circumstances for good and His glory.

Like Joseph told his brothers, "You meant this for evil, but God has used it for good." We're already seeing how God is using Charlie's death to bring people to Christ and awaken believers.

4. Understand We Are in Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6:12 reminds us: "We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers... spiritual hosts of wickedness in the high places."

The enemy wants to entice Christians to fight with carnal weapons, to respond as the world responds. But we have better weapons - the whole armor of God, prayer, and the sword of the Spirit.

5. Hear the Call to Rise Up

There's evidence across the nation that many are hearing this call to be more bold, courageous, and truthful - but to do it in the right spirit. Be led by the Holy Spirit, not just your own good ideas.

Like Isaiah who responded "Here I am, send me," we must be willing to step into the places God leads us. You don't need a theological degree or prepared sermon - just a willing heart that says, "God, I love people and I want you to love others through me."

Life Application

When tragedy strikes our culture or our personal lives, it tests us and brings things to the surface that God wants us to address. Remember this truth: "The devil's greatest delight is a Christian who reacts in the flesh. His greatest defeat is a Christian who responds in the Spirit."

This week, commit to these declarations:

  • I will pray first, not react.
  • I will respond with grace, not anger.
  • I will see the big picture of God's kingdom.
  • I will fight the right battle with the weapons of the Spirit.

 

Questions to Consider:

  • When faced with opposition or tragedy, what is my first response? Do I react in the flesh or respond in the Spirit?
  • How can I be a more effective witness for Christ in my daily interactions?
  • Am I allowing the Holy Spirit to lead me to people who need to hear about God's love?
  • What spiritual weapons am I neglecting in my daily battle against darkness?
  • How can I honor the legacy of faithful witnesses by living more boldly for Christ?

 

In a world where voices are sometimes silenced, may we speak truth with love, respond to evil with good, and trust that God's purposes will prevail even in our darkest moments.