From Fox’s Book of Martyrs: History of Christian Martyrs to the First General Persecutions under Nero
In Matthew’s gospel, when Jesus asked his disciples: “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter was the first to answer, “You’re the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Jesus responded, “God bless you, Simon, son of Jonah! You didn’t get that answer out of books or from teachers. My Father in heaven, God himself, let you in on this secret of who I really am. And now I’m going to tell you who you are, really are. You are Peter, a rock. This is the rock on which I will put together my church, a church so expansive with energy that not even the gates of hell will be able to keep it out.”
Three points are noted from Christ’s reply: That he wants a church in this world; that this church will be powerfully challenged, not only by the world, but also by all hell’s strength and power; and that despite these challenges the church will prove superior.
Church history confirms Christ’s prophecy. He has established his church in spite of those who have set out to destroy it with strength and cunning, in public and in private. Princes, kings, monarchs, governors, rulers, with their subjects, have all tried to ruin the church of Jesus Christ, yet it stands.
It’s amazing to consider the storms and violent disturbances the church has withstood. That’s why I have recorded these past events so that God’s wonderful works through his church may be made known for his honor’s sake. My hope also is that this history would contribute to a greater knowledge and experience of the church so that readers would benefit from an uplifting of their Christian faith.
It is not our aim to add more detail to our Savior’s story before or after his crucifixion, except to remind ourselves of the embarrassment of the Jews by his resurrection. Although one apostle betrayed him, another denied him even under oath, and the rest, excluding Judas Iscariot who had already sealed his fate, left him in the lurch, the news of Christ’s resurrection gave new purpose to their hearts; and after the Holy Spirit had been poured out, new boldness to their minds.
The powers that they were given encouraged them to glorify Jesus’ name, which confused the Jewish rulers, and surprised the new Gentile converts.
