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In February 2021 James Coates, pastor of GraceLife Church in Canada, was arrested for defying government orders on public gatherings due to COVID-19 restrictions. He was charged with holding in-person worship services in violation of Edmonton, Alberta, health orders setting attendance limits to 15% of the facility’s total capacity. Some reports in U.S. media have also indicated pastor Coates was arrested for preaching the gospel.
For many believers, Coates’ arrest is a troubling government overreach into the rights of Christians to assemble together in worship of the Lord; a grim example of Christian persecution and a clarion call for the Church to resist the demands of authorities in obedience to God.
But is his case really one of Christian persecution? Do Christians in the United States have the clear perspective on what our Canadian brothers and sisters are facing and a clear viewpoint of biblically-defined persecution?
Join the Patterns of Truth podcast team as they interview Brian Reynolds, a Canadian brother teaching the Word through online resources, conferences, and written works, to discuss the distinction of social pressure verses Christian persecution, as well as the differences between political and biblical perspectives in regard to the restrictions being placed on people throughout North America.
If you are interested in learning more on this subject or viewing additional teaching from Brian Reynolds, Patterns of Truth invites you to check out his YouTube channel, Words of this Life. You are also encouraged to consider brother Brian’s books available at the following websites:
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A place for casual discussions of Biblical principles and difficult questions that face the Christian believer. We believe that the Bible can speak to todays issues, giving us the wisdom and courage we need for our lives. Find us online at https://patternsoftruth.org/
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Thanks for having me guys! A quick clarification: I had mentioned in our conversation that I didn’t think the word “persecution” was actually stated in the Bible. That statement off the top of my head was incorrect. Paul says in his former life he persecuted the church see Gal. 1:13; Phil. 3:6; also 2 Tim. 3:12. Of course even when the word itself is not used there are plenty of examples of it.
Really enjoyed this discussion on a current issue! Thank-you.
You’re welcome and thank you for your feedback!