We sit smugly in our church pews, in our Bible studies or even in our homes.  We never think or imagine that we would face death threats, persecution or afraid of answering the knock on our doors.  We feel safe and secure.  This is America and our faith in Jesus is easy.   In fact……….too easy.

What if we were Believers, living in Iran, Syria, Pakistan.  Being a Christian there would mean living in fear of losing your life.

Would you and I be able to remain faithful?  Would we be afraid of being discovered? 

Facing persecution is not in our thoughts.  We might think about what we will wear on Sunday or where to lunch after worship. Thinking about our team winning the big game.   

I have been reading stories of Christians living in Iran.  It is dangerous for Believers.   There are very few church buildings in the capital of Tehran.  In addition, the government constantly watches the people in those churches, limits attendance and controls what is preached.  Iranian Believers are also subject to periodic arrests and constant questioning.  Thus, promoting the development of small house churches. 

Believers who gather must always be fearful.  They close their shutters on the windows.  They walk carefully and are aware of being followed. They sing songs in a whisper. 

However, the more persecution, the greater is the faith.  Under persecution more converts are attracted to Jesus and His teachings. 

House churches are a viable and Biblical solution for us as well as those living under the threat of persecution. 

We pay enormous sums for the upkeep of these large buildings.  Preachers, secretaries, maintenance, etc.  The list goes on.  Does this mean that Christianity is growing?  I fear not!

A house church model primarily requires a group of willing Believers with capable leadership and sound teaching. 

People who do not or will not attend a church with a name above the door will more likely attend a small intimate gathering.  They listen to sound bible teaching but can ask questions and grow in the Faith.  The teacher/preacher might have a real job in the outside world where he can be of service in his discipleship as well as being a leader in a small house church. 

During the second and third centuries, Believers faced increasing persecution but gathered in homes for worship.  The Christian faith continued to grow.

 What was beneficial for Believers in the first few centuries might be valuable for Believers in the 21^st century. 

Are you and I willing to be ridiculed, chastised, rejected because of holding fast to the teachings as we read in Scripture and not some church theology? Would you be willing to face the same persecution as those living in Iraq? 

Is your faith just showing up on Sunday and leaving quickly to get on with what you rather be doing? Are you a faithful disciple of the Jewish Jesus?

                                      Can you be a 1^st Century Christian?