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Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

 

5:10

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,

The persecution to which Jesus refers here is not for personal wrong but for “the kingdom of heaven. The word “for” connotes on account of righteousness. Righteousness is the cause of persecution. There is something about the gospel that brings out the worst in those who oppose the gospel.

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

The average Jew of Jesus’ day looked at the kingdom as a time of prosperity, but Jesus said His kingdom will bear the blessedness of being persecuted for what is right.

PRINCIPLE:

Living for the kingdom involves persecution.

APPLICATION:

The Christian life is not all sweetness and light. Christians need to expect persecution. If they don’t, persecution will destabilize their Christian lives. Persecution involves a certain preparation and orientation to God’s will.

Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 2 Ti 3:12

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 1 Pe 1:6-8

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 1 Pe 4:12-14

But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. 1 Pe 5:10

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