1 Thessalonians 2:14-15

For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, because you too suffered the same persecution from your own countrymen, as they did from the Jews who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and harassed and drove us out; and (they) continue to be highly displeasing to God and (to show themselves) hostile to all people.

Christians have suffered persecution for over 2000 years, and here we are starting to see a change toward the faith. Our best defense in an intolerant world is to keep our focus committed to the word and God. God is our strength, courage, and confidence in an intolerant world. We cannot draw back from the faith now but press forward.