Man accused of crucifying pastor asks for death penalty: Trusting God when we suffer because we trust God

In April 2025, Pastor William Schonemann of New River Bible Chapel in Arizona was found dead inside his home in a position authorities described as resembling crucifixion. Last week, the man accused of killing the pastor asked a court to sentence him to death. He stated, “It’s an undisputable fact that the crime was heinous in nature. I intended it to be heinous.” Our faith does not exempt us from living in a fallen world, but when we suffer because we are believers, we can especially question the reality and relevance of our faith. It feels grossly unfair for God to call us to follow and serve him, then allow us to be persecuted for obeying his call. However, it is also such suffering that affords us an opportunity to know and honor our Lord in ways we cannot otherwise.

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