[Dr. Eckleburg]

He is a good man, an incredibly gifted man, and his mistreatment by his denomination was entirely out of line.

"And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?

But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer well doing, than for evil doing." -- 1 Peter 3:13-17

"Suffer for well doing" rather than suffer "for evil doing."

Isn't it miraculous how every word of Scripture a fervent call to confidence?

[xzins]

In terms of the righteous being persecuted, Dr. Kirk’s earned his spurs.