Jars of Clay

Written by Release’s Kenneth Harrod, this book reminds us that persecution is at the centre of our Christian faith.

The New Testament, it is sometimes said, was written by persecuted Christians for persecuted Christians. That may be a slight exaggeration, but it contains, or implies, several important, and challenging, factors for Christians living in the ‘free’ west. It reminds us that ‘suffering for Christ’ is a central theme in New Testament Christianity. It reminds us also that, as part of the one Body of Christ, persecution affects (or should affect) every Christian, one way or another.

Jars of Clay gives a clear biblical perspective on persecution, and includes details of some of the persecuted believers from around the world whom the author has met as part of his ministry with Release. The five chapters focus on five key areas: mission, the gospel, grace, the church and hope and each chapter concludes with questions that can be used for personal reflection or discussion, making it ideal for use in a Bible study or home group or as the basis for a teaching series within your church.

The book includes a foreword by the Archbishop of York, and has been commended by Canon Andrew White, Mervyn Thomas (Chief Executive of Christian Solidarity Worldwide) and Lisa Pearce (Chief Executive of Open Doors UK).

“Brilliant, passed it on to my pastor. I will have to read it again. All who have a heart for persecution should read this moving book.” (Joan R. Norfolk)