Extreme Devotion: Day 99 - Extreme Hymn Hosted by The Voice of The Martyrs
Release Date: April 9, 2025

Introduction

In the poignant episode titled "Day 99: Extreme Hymn," The Voice of The Martyrs delves deep into the harrowing experiences of persecuted Christians in North Korea. This episode encapsulates stories of unwavering faith, sacrificial love, and the profound impact of devotion under extreme oppression. Through vivid narration and testimonies, listeners are transported into the lives of those who risk everything for their beliefs.

The Tragedy of Goksan Village

The episode opens with a heart-wrenching account from the village of Goksan in North Korea. A congregation, including a young brown-eyed girl, her mother Pastor Kim, and 26 other villagers, faced brutal persecution for their Christian faith.

• Captured Conviction: Early that morning, Pastor Kim and the villagers were seized and brought before a hostile communist crowd. A guard ominously demanded, “Deny Christ or you will die” (00:30). Despite the terrifying ultimatum, Pastor Kim and her fellow Christians remained steadfast in their faith, quietly refusing to renounce Jesus.

• A Mother's Sacrifice: The tension escalated when the guard threatened, “Deny Christ or we will hang your children” (01:10). Faced with the unimaginable choice, Pastor Kim chose to protect her children’s faith over their lives. As the children were brutally executed, she whispered to her daughter, “Today, my love, I will see you in heaven” (01:45). This poignant moment underscores the depth of her devotion and the ultimate sacrifice made in the name of faith.

• Martyrdom Under Pressure: The surviving believers were then forced to lie in front of a steamroller with the ultimatum: “Deny this Jesus, or you will be crushed” (02:30). Their silent refusal led to their tragic deaths, demonstrating their unshakeable commitment to their beliefs even in the face of death.

More Love to Thee: A Testament of Unyielding Faith

Amidst the brutality, the villagers began to sing softly, transforming their impending martyrdom into an act of worship.

• The Power of Hymnals: The hymn “More Love to Thee” echoes through the narrative, symbolizing the believers' unwavering love and devotion to Jesus Christ. The repeated chorus, “More love to thee. More. It's what God gave when he sent his son” (03:15), highlights the profound connection between divine love and human sacrifice.

• Lifestyle of Devotion: The episode emphasizes that “More Love to Thee is more than just words in a traditional hymnal. It's a lifestyle without limit” (04:00). This perspective showcases how believers prioritize their faith above societal pressures, embodying a lifestyle of continuous giving and love towards Christ.

Modern-Day Reflections and Sacrifices

Transitioning from the historical account, the episode reflects on contemporary expressions of extreme devotion among Christians worldwide.

• Everyday Sacrifices: For some believers, the path of "More love to Thee" involves personal sacrifices, such as financial hardships. This notion is contrasted with a worldly age that often values giving only what is necessary for survival, thereby elevating the standard set by devoted Christians.

• Testimonies of Perseverance: Listeners are invited to explore direct testimonies from persecuted Christians and the gospel workers supporting them. These narratives reinforce the idea that true devotion often requires going beyond societal norms and enduring significant challenges for one's faith.

Conclusion: A Call to Deeper Devotion

The episode closes with a reflection on what "More love to Thee" means in the daily lives of believers. It challenges listeners to consider their own expressions of devotion and the lengths they are willing to go to honor their faith.

• Invitation to Engage: The Voice of The Martyrs encourages audiences to listen to VOM Radio for more stories of faith and perseverance. By subscribing to their podcast, listeners can stay connected to ongoing testimonies and support efforts to aid persecuted Christians globally.

Notable Quotes

• Pastor Kim: “Today, my love, I will see you in heaven.” (01:45)
• Narrator: “More Love to Thee is more than just words in a traditional hymnal. It's a lifestyle without limit.” (04:00)

Key Takeaways

• Unwavering Faith: The villagers of Goksan exemplify the highest level of devotion, choosing faith over life itself.
• Sacrificial Love: Pastor Kim's decision to protect her children's faith highlights the profound sacrifices made by believers.
• Symbolism of Hymns: "More Love to Thee" serves as a powerful representation of continuous and limitless devotion.
• Contemporary Relevance: The episode draws parallels between historical martyrdom and modern-day sacrifices, urging believers to reflect on their own levels of commitment.

Final Thoughts

"Day 99: Extreme Hymn" is a compelling episode that not only recounts the heartbreaking stories of persecuted Christians but also inspires listeners to evaluate and deepen their own faith. Through testimonies of extreme devotion, The Voice of The Martyrs underscores the enduring power of belief and the transformative impact of living a life dedicated to more love for Christ.

For more inspiring stories and updates, subscribe to VOM Radio on your preferred podcast platform and support the mission of The Voice of The Martyrs.