“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:10
If you pursue the life to which Christ calls you in the Beatitudes, Jesus says you will be persecuted by the world and blessed by God.
‘Persecuted’ means to be harassed, opposed, and ill-treated. This will happen, so expect it. The world will not thank you for being a Christian, neither will it love the church. It will tolerate the church with suspicion at best, and show open hostility at worst.
“All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim. 3:12). Jesus lived the Beatitudes perfectly, and look what the world did to Him. Jesus said, “‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20).
Thomas Watson names two forms of persecution—the hand and tongue. Persecution with the hand is physical violence, imprisonment, and even martyrdom. Persecution of the tongue is insult or slander. “Blessed are you when others revile you” (Matt. 5:11). This might include verbal abuse, intimidation, or torment. If people know you are a Christian, you are going to get opposition. Satan has his eye on you, and he won’t give you a break, regardless of your age.
But there is great blessing for those who follow Christ—there is fellowship with Christ and a special anointing of the Spirit that you can experience in the face of suffering. Opposition helps you grow as a Christian, and it has a sanctifying effect on the church.
“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven” (5:12). In heaven, something will be yours on account of your suffering that would not have been yours otherwise. Your light and momentary suffering is preparing for you an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison (2 Cor. 4:17).
Where do you see persecution in your life on account of Christ? Blessing?
