Deal with evil in high places not only by denouncing it but also by advocating positive, realistic alternatives.

• Be sure of your facts before prayerfully denouncing evil in high places.
• Don't waste time crusading unless there is a realistic possibility of bringing about change.
• Let your motive be love, not revenge nor political power or fame.
• Out of compassion we aim to alleviate the pain of those caused by power hungry people, who use their positions unjustly in government and the church.

Find in Mark 14:53-65 what Jesus did when they persecuted Him and why they sentenced Him to death.

Find in Matthew 5:11-12 what to do when we are persecuted.

• What God stopped Saul from doing.
• What Ananias of Damascus did.
• What Saul did as soon as He could see.

Find in 1 John 4:1-3 why and how we are to test the spirits of those who bring new doctrines.

Find in the book of Revelation the general theme of assurance that, even though evil men and governments now control much of the world and oppress God's children, Jesus Christ will reign in the end, triumphing over all.

Find in the book of Jeremiah how God uses His leaders to deal with error (list several things).

Find in the book of Micah more examples of good and bad government, and warnings.

Find in the book of Obadiah how God punished rebellious people in the Old Testament.

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For a historical perspective on the abuse of power in the church and how reformers dealt with it, read Austin's Topical History of Christianity, Sections V through VIII.

For a more contemporary view of oppression of God's people: The Church in China, Carl Lawrence.

Listen to local people talk about injustice.

• Analyze their political jokes, which are often their way of coping with frustration.
• Discreetly read the opposition newspapers.
• What advocacy groups exist that are willing to take up issues that politicians and their followers are too weak to deal with?