In many situations converts to the Christian faith face intense persecution. Leaving an old religion to follow Jesus brings questioning and scrutiny from those around the converted. Families break and relationships suffer. But Jesus calls all to follow him, and some start their journey on more difficult circumstances than others.

Paul commended the early converts in Corinth: You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people.

Stephanas and his household heard the good news of Jesus and followed him in the midst of Corinth, a wealthy port and major worship center of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, pleasure and procreation. Temples to Aphrodite and other gods littered the city, yet in their midst the gospel took root.

Not only rooted, but the gospel flourished under the leadership of Stephanas. He and his fellow believers went all in, despite the opposition of friends and neighbors. To be a convert came with a cost. But the believers in Corinth bet all they had on Jesus.

Many choose to follow Jesus in the midst of a supportive church and an encouraging family. I praise God for such situations and pray for many more. But let’s pray for those in our world who follow the path of Stephanas and convert in the midst of oppositional cultures. May the Lord bless them and keep them and make them strong, and may we take heart in their courage.

1 Corinthians 16 in reading the Bible in 2023

Photo by Amanda Jones