"FRIENDLY FIRE in the Body of Christ!"

Friendly fire (FF) is an attack by a military force on friendly forces while attempting to attack the enemy, either misidentifying the target as hostile, or due to errors or inaccuracy. Such attacks often cause injury or death. But in the context of the Body of Christ, FF represents the "intentional assault upon and/or sabotage of an individual or group of individuals by an individual or group thought to be an ally or "friend."

FF is nothing new to the BOC. The Lord God was under constant attack from friendly fire, especially from His disciples!

"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:12-13)"

The Word urges us not to be amazed when these bizarre occurrences come upon us. It implores us not to be shocked as if experiencing the hurt, anger and pain of rejection and betrayal is something strange. This is no big deal. The Word of God calls this "persecution" and it is the thing we have most in common with our Savior that is seldom talked about.

Oh sure, the "persecution of Christ" is common knowledge and the fervent preaching about His stripes, His cross and His death are popular preaching points. But what about "Our stripes, our crosses and our deaths;" on these three points, the Body of Christ AND the Church are curiously SILENT!

FF is the man or woman who walks with you on the journey to redemption and realizes that when adversity comes they must go another way; but the unfortunate thing is, you are the last one to know about their change of heart. This action is subtle and not as bold or blatant as a "backstabbing, cut-throat" move as a 180 degree departures from strong spiritual connections, long-standing covenant relationships or opposing philosophical differences. 

Maybe you just found out your wife is sleeping with one of the Deacons at church, or your efforts to serve in a ministry are being undermined by the pastor all the while smiling in your face. Friendly fire. Perhaps one of the elders was caught in a drug sting or you just found out your church is in foreclosure but tithes and offerings were collected the week before! It could just be as simple as thinking that someone you thought was in your corner had your back...

Peter tells us in no uncertain terms, that the "fiery trial" WILL COME without a shadow of a doubt. The key is how will you respond when it comes knocking on your door? Will you cut and run? Will you shrink in FEAR? Or will you invite him in, sit him down and introduce him to your "secret weapon" called FAITH? 

By inviting him in, you willingly "partake of Christ's sufferings" being fully persuaded that when His glory is revealed (upon His return and through His faithful sons as believers) we will be and already have been glorified in the earth with Him.

 "If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. (1 Peter 4:14a)