Will they cheer when we die? (1.Cor 4:8-10)

You are already filled, you have already become rich, you have become kings without us; and indeed, I wish that you had become kings so that we also might reign with you. For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor. (1. Cor 4:8-10)

When Paul says the apostles are exhibited last of all, as men condemned to death, the picture that would have formed in the minds of the original readers is the picture of a roman arena, and the grand finale of their gladiator show. He saw the world standing up and on the tribunes and cheering as the main attraction is dragged out by thick iron chains and released.They are prisoners, condemned to die a violent and gruesome death.

The world is not content just disliking, or being mildly annoyed with Christians. Throughout the history, in every part of the world, they have suffered persecution from Pagans, Muslims, Catholics, Atheists and everything in between. The relative peace that European and American Christians have enjoyed over the last few centuries is really an anomaly. So these verses seem strange to us. Maybe a little bit outdated. But both history and current developments with Islam and militant atheism would lead us to be prepared for times to get harder.

Christians have always been misrepresented and hated. If you read news you can hear the echoes of it. Evangelism is hate speech, teaching your children Christianity is child abuse. This is not new. And it is not extreme, compared to the accusations against Christians in atheist countries like China and North Korea, and Muslim countries in the Middle East and North Africa.

It is a rarity that the world in general does not cheer when we die. And we should not take it for granted.