“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matt 5:10 ESV

Why does “persecution” follow “peacemakers”?

When is my suffering persecution and when is it just punishment?

“When a man is called on to suffer something for his Christianity that is always a crucial moment; it is the great occasion; it is the clash between the world and Christ; it is a moment in the drama of eternity. To have a share in such a moment is not a penalty but a glory.”  Barclay

This past Sunday we finished the first section on the Sermon on the Mount as Jesus did; with talk of persecution and the desired blessing that comes with suffering for righteousness sake.  To follow the saints and prophets who have gone before us, to be different from the world, not because we’re righteous, but because Jesus is. To taste of the agony of being called names and mocked at, all because those who don’t yet know Jesus only know there’s a difference. And we’re called to live in that difference.

“Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.”

• Pray for the persecuted church around the world.
• Pray for brothers and sisters in your community being harassed and mistreated as they live out the Kingdom principles of Matt 5.
• Pray for a prepared heart for when the insults and rejections come your way.
• Rejoice and endure

When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; ¹³ when slandered, we entreat. 1 Cor 4:12-13

⁴¹ Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.  Acts 5:41

¹⁰ For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Cor 12:10

Give thanks to the Lord for what He suffered for our sake and for the privilege to be called His.