Charlie Kirk – Christian Martyr 🙏

“While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep” (Acts 7:59-60).

In ancient Jerusalem, Stephen, a servant in the church, faced a furious crowd 😡 … Accused of bigoted hatred towards God and his ancestors, he boldly shared how God guided history and called out their stubborn hearts (see Acts 7). Enraged, they KILLED him with stones 😱

Yet Stephen's last words were a prayer of forgiveness for the enemies he worked so hard to win over! And their violent act didn’t carry the desired effect. As the first Christian MARTYR, Stephen’s death fueled the Gospel’s spread. Today, amid online rage and protests, Charlie Kirk mirrored that courage — a modern HERO standing for Jesus at great personal cost.

Charlie founded Turning Point USA to teach young people about FAITH and FREEDOM. Like Stephen challenging leaders, he spoke truth on college campuses, often facing mobs. In 2019 at UCLA, for example, protesters smashed windows and hurled slurs like “RACIST” for his defense of unborn babies and traditional marriage. Critics label him divisive, a fear-stirrer pushing cultural fights.

But echoing Stephen’s honest recount of Israel’s failures, Charlie shared the full BIBLICAL truth knowing it would spark backlash in an increasingly godless society. Like Paul, who was labeled a “troublemaker,” Charlie understood a faithful witness causes strong reactions from EVIL people like the one who took his life 😞

Detractors called him a phony, but he always kept heaven in view. In 2023, after doxxing and death threats for opposing demonic corporate “wokeness” — branded as “hate” — Charlie didn't lash out. He led prayer gatherings, urged unity in Christ, and tweeted forgiveness: “Love your enemies, even when they hate you for him.” This isn't fake; it’s faithfulness to the Gospel. Like Stephen's plea that stirred Saul (later Paul), Charlie's mercy softened foes and inspires believers.

And this brings me to the heart of the matter. What is your take on someone like Charlie Kirk who so clearly PUSHED into the world of politics with the intent to preach the Gospel and allowing the Bible (to the best of his ability) to inform his views on government and culture? Could you be a Charlie Kirk?? Could you be HATED, LEBELED and MURDERED for your faith?

On a personal note, Charlie truly embodied everything I (Pastor AJ) strive to be for Jesus and in a way that was far superior to anything I could ever achieve. Knowing that everything in this life is only temporary, his death likewise produces in me a Godly jealousy that Jesus counted him worthy of such a sacrifice akin to those of the early Christians.

To me, Charlie Kirk was a modern Christian martyr for these reasons and more! So, friends, let his example turn your spiritual fire into a BLAZING INFERNO 🔥 for your Lord since, truly, our allotted time here is short!

What do you think 🤔 of Charlie’s life and ministry? Were you aware of his incredible passion and boldness for Christ?

How might Jesus be calling you to follow this example and be more BOLD in your world?