Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them. (2 Timothy 3:12–14)
Notice, it doesn’t say that “all who call themselves Christians” will suffer persecution; nor does it say “all who live godly” (or “perfectly,” which is impossible) will suffer persecution. It says all who “desire to live godly” will suffer persecution. He is speaking to Believers—redeemed sinners who are seeking to live out the Gospel in their everyday lives. If you go with the flow, you probably won’t face much opposition. But, if you live Christ, then expect at times to be hated, misunderstood, and slandered for His sake.
From this post at Your Sacred Calling
How many of us are actually suffering any degree of persecution? Not very many of us. I mean, the worse thing that happens to me is that I get made fun of by family and friends for having Biblical views. This isn't exactly persecution, and most people I know don't even "suffer" that.
So the question is, are you living a life that strives to be more and more Christ-like? Do you want to live in a way that honours God? Are you willing to make sacrifices - even big ones, to do this? Because while we are living just like everyone else, then we will not suffer persecution. The world will not persecute its own, just those in whom it sees Jesus.
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