Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted For Righteousness’ Sake

Matthew 5:10-12

Story & Lessons

A righteous Christian life often leads to conflict.

Jesus points out in the last Beatitude – "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake"(10).

Suffering and persecution is not necessarily an indication of God’s displeasure.

Jesus warned His disciples to expect persecution: "Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you" (11-12).

Jesus warned that the world will hate us - All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

Reflection...

We must expect to suffer for Christ.

Persecution can come in different forms – some Christians are imprisoned or killed; others are reproached and slandered.

As Christians we can rejoice when we suffer for Christ — our suffering is a proof that we belong to Christ.

The Christian’s suffering is not for ever and we know that we will have a great reward in heaven.

Have we been complaining about God’s dealing with us? Are we passing through a time of trial?

Then we must start counting our blessings and think about all the benefits that are ours in Christ.

We will soon find ourselves rejoicing in God and praising Him!