The following article was published in First Baptist’s Reminder newsletter September 28, 2011…

Chuck Swindoll tells the story of a house church in the former Soviet Union.  They had to meet in secret to avoid reprisals from the communist government.  One Sunday these believers arrived inconspicuously in small groups throughout the day so as not to arouse the suspicion of the KGB informers.  By dusk they were all safely inside, windows closed, and doors locked.  They began by singing a hymn quietly but with deep emotion.  Suddenly, the door was pushed open and in walked two soldiers with loaded automatic weapons at the ready.  One shouted, “All right – everybody line up against the wall.  If you wish to renounce your commitment to Jesus Christ, leave now!” Continue reading →