I have known and met many people that have faced Persecution for various reasons, and I have been persecuted for being Christian, but no where near the extent of what they have faced.
We are entering a time when Christians are facing more Persecution than ever. Watchdog groups may keep count of the acts of violence, human rights violations, what groups, nations and governments are doing to Christians, we must not learn hate. We must remember to love those that persecute us and pray for them and never take retaliation.
The purpose of this is, THEIR soul. We know where we are going when we die, especially if it's by the hands of the persecutor. They aren't going to the same place, that is the saddest part of all and exactly why they need our prayers and love.
The Flip Side to Persecution is Christians weak in their walk with the Lord may be willing to comprise their beliefs to save face. Which it turns out, that person is lying to whomever, and their selves.