At a friend’s recommendation, I recently watched Sheep Among Wolves, Volume II, available on YouTube. It’s a nearly 2-hour documentary about disciple-making movements in Iran. Strongly recommend. Here’s a highlight:

The churches in the west are definitely weak in our theology of suffering or martyrdom…In America, we’re trying to make the most of this life. The Iranians are saying, “Forget this life, I’m betting on the next one!” – From Sheep Among Wolves, Volume II

Therefore believers in Iran are more like the folks Peter was writing to:

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed…Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. (1 Peter 4.12, 13…19, ESV)

I’ll share another highlight from the movie after All Saints Day.

If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. (1 Corinthians 15.19, ESV)