What does the Bible say about being persecuted for Christ?

In Matthew 10:16-25, Jesus commissions His disciples, warning them that they will face persecution. He likens them to sheep surrounded by wolves, indicating the danger they will encounter while preaching the Gospel. This imagery emphasizes the vulnerability of the disciples, as they will encounter hostility from both religious and governmental authorities. The passage serves to remind believers that suffering for Christ is not only probable but expected, as Christ Himself faced persecution, and His followers must be prepared to endure similar trials. This experience of persecution is part of the Christian calling, as adhering to the Gospel can lead to conflict with the world’s values.