Are you willing to die for your beliefs? I don't mean die metaphorically - I mean face torture, dismemberment, and a gruesome death, all for refusing to betray the truth you've encountered.
That's the kind of commitment the apostles of Christ displayed. They were boiled in oil, flayed alive, crucified upside down, and dragged through the streets until they perished. Why? Because they had seen something so real, so earth-shattering, that denying it was impossible - even when their very lives were on the line.
The story of Simon the Zealot is just one chilling example. This follower of Jesus was reportedly sawed in half for refusing to renounce his faith. Can you even begin to imagine the agony, the terror, the unimaginable pain he endured?
## A Prophecy Fulfilled?
Simon's brutal end is a grim foreshadowing of what's to come, according to the Bible's end-times prophecies. The book of Revelation talks about a "mark of the beast" that will be required to buy or sell. Those who refuse this mark will be persecuted, even executed.
Daniel's apocalyptic visions also describe a time of "tribulation" unlike anything the world has ever seen. Jesus himself warned his followers to be ready for intense persecution and suffering.
## The Writing on the Wall
The technology to fulfill these ancient prophecies already exists. Brain implants, digital currency, surveillance states - the pieces are all falling into place. Are you paying attention?
## Prepare for What's Coming
Most people would never choose torture over comfort. We've become masters at avoiding hard truths and shielding ourselves from suffering. But the apostles showed that true conviction is worth dying for.
Are you ready to make that kind of stand? The choice may be closer than you think.
"The truth doesn't hide. It waits for those brave enough to look."
The Wise Wolf