Blessed are the Persecuted


"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:10)


The kingdom of heaven represents the government of God that is being established on earth through the church. Thus, we are the ambassadors of God on earth.


This Beatitude teaches us that anyone actively involved in establishing God's kingdom on earth will be persecuted. All Christians are enemies of the devil though, but he is selective in his attacks. He spends more time and effort targeting the kingdom promoters because they are of a greater threat to him.


"In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2 Timothy 3:12)


Persecution is therefore a sign of your active involvement in God's kingdom. At the very extreme, these persecutions can get to the point of insults and false accusations.


"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me." (Matthew 5:11)


Don't be surprised that this ends the Beatitudes. Your ability to endure hardship and unfair treatment for the sake of Christ is the seal of your fidelity to the cause of Christ. We are to rejoice when we see such things in our lives because we are going to be greatly rewarded.


"Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew 5:12)


This brings us to the end of the beatitudes. God willing, we will start a new series next week. May God help us to pursue all the blessedness that is in the kingdom.


Remain inspired!


Your friend,

Joel

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