Ready to die, or ready to critique?

In Nigeria — and many other parts of the world — believers go to church expecting to suffer, and some even ready to die. Meanwhile, in the West, Christians won't go to church because it doesn't have their type of programs, their kind of people, or sermons that fit their personal convictions.

Persecuted believers say, "I go to church even if I die." Western believers say, "I don't go to church unless I agree."

Imagine if a Western mindset stepped into a persecuted church context: "Is there WiFi here?" "Do they have kids' ministry?" "I'm not sure I like the atmosphere." "This message is too strong." "This message is too soft." "It's risky… maybe I'll stay home and watch online."

The persecuted church gathers at any cost. The comfortable church gathers if it's convenient. One meets underground. The other scrolls around.

And imagine if a persecuted believer found themselves in the West. They'd probably ask: "You mean… you can gather freely and you don't?" "No one's arresting you… and you're still late?" "You have a building, Bibles, freedom — and still need convincing?" "You left the church because it was uncomfortable?"

Some go to church ready to die. Others stay home ready to critique. Maybe comfort has done what persecution never could.