Day of the Christian MartyrSample

What Is a Martyr?

As you join Christians worldwide in honoring the legacy of those who have sacrificed their lives to advance the gospel, it is important to consider the term martyr.

The word translated as martyr comes from the Greek word for witness in the New Testament. Martyrs throughout the history of the church have testified to the truth and power of Jesus Christ and believed they should share that witness with others, regardless of the price they might pay.

Those in their journey of discipleship have given their lives to advance the gospel as their next step. They did not simply wake up one day, living a marginally Christian life, and decide, “Today, I’ll give my life for my faith.” No one is born as an exemplary biblical disciple (quite the opposite — we are all born into sin in a fallen world). Each of us must intentionally learn, obey and grow to become more and more like Christ throughout our lives.

The martyrs you will meet in the next four days share a shared passion for God. Their passion prevailed over their fears of the consequences that might result from sharing God’s love with others. Perhaps part of their passion came from understanding the high price Jesus Christ paid for their redemption. When faith costs us something, it becomes infinitely more valuable.

We can be inspired to live faithfully for Christ by reading about examples of His transformative power in those who have paid the ultimate price. As we keep their lives in mind, we can learn from their examples and take our next steps of obedience in our walk with Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

Ask the Lord to open your eyes more fully to the price He paid to atone for your sins and redeem your life from the law's curse.