Frank,
Persecution will separate the wheat and the tares in the church. It is the "testimony" of those that are persecuted that unites.
 
When the apostles were taken before the council in acts 4 they received it with joy, and prayed for boldness to continue giving their testimony. They were eyewitnesses to the glory of Christ.
 
"Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet believe" (John 20:29b)
 
"I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father are IN me, and I IN you, that they also may be IN us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me" (John 17:20-21) These verses have a deeper meaning in light of my previous letters.
 
Thanks to all on the responses on my other letter. I wasn't quite sure if I got my point across. I cannot express what the "Great Physician" is doing in my life right now. May He be praised.
 
David H.