Voice of the Martyrs Canada CEO Calls for Bold Discipleship Amid Persecution - Faith & Freedom News

In a stirring message marked by the words of Hebrews 13:3, Floyd A. Brobbel, Chief Executive Officer of Voice of the Martyrs Canada Inc., issued a clarion call for Christians to embrace a life of active discipleship and cultural engagement—even at the risk of persecution. Brobbel recalled how Glenn Penner once challenged the notion that Canadian Christians could be targets for persecution by questioning, “What has the average Christian in Canada done to warrant persecution?” He argued that the comfort of private worship should not eclipse the mandate to carry the Gospel into the world.

Citing biblical examples and the prophetic warnings of Jesus regarding the inevitable hardships faced by His followers, Brobbel emphasized that persecution is not merely about suffering but a deliberate attempt to silence the truth of God’s Word. He reminded believers that Jesus warned His disciples in John 16:1 about coming challenges designed “to keep you from falling away,” urging them to stand firm in the face of adversity.

Brobbel pointed out that true discipleship involves counting the cost, taking up one’s cross, and engaging the world as agents of transformation. Drawing on insights from renowned theologians like J.I. Packer and John Mackay, he contrasted the onlookers—those who discuss faith from a safe distance—with the travelers, who actively face the risks of sharing the Good News.

He underscored the inseparable link between the Creation Mandate from Genesis 1:28 and Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:19–20. Both commands call Christians not only to be “salt” and “light” in a hostile culture but also to extend compassion toward those imprisoned for their faith. Brobbel’s message is clear: as Canadian believers step out to fulfill the Great Commission, they should expect persecution, not as a reason to retreat, but as a testament to their faithfulness.

“May the Lord bless, keep, and prosper the work of your hands as you walk along the highway of holiness,” Brobbel concluded, reminding every believer that the reward for obedience will come in the form of divine affirmation: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23 ESV).