Are Christians Really Being Persecuted in America?
Setting the Record Straight
You hear it more and more:
“Christians are under attack.”
“We’re being silenced.”
“This country hates people of faith.”
There’s no doubt something has shifted. In past generations, Christian values were deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric. Today, those same convictions often provoke criticism, censorship, or rejection. We’ve moved from being the majority voice to being just one voice among many—and not a welcome one.
But: Are we truly being persecuted?
Or are we simply experiencing what it means to follow Jesus in a post-Christian world?
What Is Persecution… Really?
First, there are a few things we need to remember:
Persecution is not when someone disagrees with your social media post.
It’s not when a store clerk says “Happy Holidays.”
It’s not when Christians are called old-fashioned or intolerant.
Biblically speaking, persecution is unjust suffering for the sake of Christ and His righteousness.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.”
— Matthew 5:10, CSB
In the first century, Christians were arrested, tortured, and executed, not because they were combative, but because they wouldn't bow to Caesar. Today, in countries like Iran, China, and Nigeria, Christians still risk prison or death just for gathering in Jesus’ name.
That’s real persecution. And yes, it still exists on a global scale.
Soft Persecution: Real, But Different
In America, we aren't being beaten or executed (yet). But we are facing what some call soft persecution:
Losing a job for speaking biblical truth.
Being deplatformed for holding Christian convictions.
Having your reputation smeared for standing against cultural idols.
This isn’t just discomfort… It’s cultural hostility toward truth itself.
“If the world hates you, understand that it hated me before it hated you.”
— John 15:18, CSB
However, danger arises when we confuse discomfort with persecution; we may respond with outrage instead of endurance—pride instead of humility—fear instead of faith.
How Should Christians Respond?
With Courage, Not Outrage
We are not victims… we are witnesses. Jesus didn’t panic when He was rejected. He endured.
With Conviction, Not Compromise
Stand firm. Speak the truth. Live holy. The world may hate it, but the Kingdom demands it.
With Joy, Not Bitterness
When Peter and John were flogged for preaching Christ, they rejoiced.
“They went out from the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to be treated shamefully on behalf of the Name.”
— Acts 5:41, CSB
A Time for Clarity
Don’t buy into a victim mindset. But don’t be naïve either.
Yes, pressure is mounting. Yes, cultural hostility is real. But Jesus told us this would happen, and He also told us not to be afraid.
“In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
— 2 Timothy 3:12, CSB
So let’s get serious. Let’s get biblical. Let’s get ready.
Because the real question isn’t, “Are we being persecuted?”
The real question is:
“Will we be faithful when we are?”
