BARELY a few weeks ago in Iraq 14 muslims converted from Islam to Christianity. Within a week 11 of them were shot dead (source: The Sunday Telegraph/April).

Under the emperor Nero many Christians were burnt alive for their beliefs. Down the centuries millions of Christians in many lands have been persecuted: sacked from their jobs (ring a bell?), girls raped, houses set alight and many murdered for their beliefs - many suffering torture first. Still they cling to their faith and God’s promise. Christianity is not for sissies!

Every Sunday since Christ’s resurrection, Christians gather at churches throughout the world in order to worship their God. In addition, many gather, also, throughout the week to study scripture and to pray for the government (whatever persuasion) that it may make wise decisions concerning its subjects. Or they help the homeless and also run youth groups - and much more. They carry out good works for as scripture says, faith without good works is meaningless.

Presently in this country there are early signs of coming persecution, nothing like abroad, of course - yet.

Thus, as messrs Chamberlain, Woodham and Horwat (Bible has many tales of tyranny, SA, April 29), I’m sure would agree: Christians share a common trait-all worship a wicked, tyrannical God.

JEFF ADAMS Bloomsbury Close Swindon