Matthew 5:10-12

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Matthew 5:10-12
Up to this point we have seen seven beatitudes; seven character traits of a kingdom citizen. The eighth is actually a double blessedness. “Blessed” is stated twice in order to indicate abundance. When one adds this in with all the rest he has come to the ultimate state of joy.It sounds odd to say that joy could come out of persecution. It makes no sense to our human minds. But Paul explained it well when he said, “We are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh” (2 Cor. 4:10). There is no greater joy than to know that you have given your life up so that others will see Jesus in you and be saved. It is the essence of living like Jesus lived and then experiencing the same things He experienced.

However, do not misunderstand. Jesus is not suggesting we go out and find a way to get persecuted. Paul avoided persecution when possible. No, the idea is that we are not ashamed of Him and we are not ashamed of His words. No matter how the teachings of Christ are contrary to our society, we must continue to proclaim them and insist that this is the only way to salvation. When we do that, persecution will follow. It may simply come in the form of “men falsely saying all kinds of evil against you,” or it may have to do with physical suffering. Either way, when a Christian is maligned even though he has truly presented himself with the meekness of Christ, he has reason to rejoice. He has walked in the footsteps of Jesus and his reward will be great in heaven.

By the way, are you ever persecuted for the sake of righteousness? If not, be concerned. The reason may be because you are compromising with the world. Paul said, “Yes and all who live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Tim. 3:12). A true kingdom citizen will not be able to escape persecution because his life will eventually clash with the ways of the world.
Berry Kercheville