Persecution

For Sunday, January 15, 2023:

Matthew 5:10-12 NLT, Jesus speaking: “God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.”

The character traits herein described don’t seem to be valued by the world. In fact, believers not only are not valued, but they are objects of much anger and persecution. Nowadays, we give a lot of awards for power and personal achievement, far fewer humanitarian awards.

Keep in mind that at that time, our opposition was Rome. They falsely accused Christians of cannibalism because of the last supper; immorality because of loving one another and private meetings; treason because Christians would not worship the Roman gods; and revolutionary sedition for saying that Jesus’ return would be an apocalyptic end of the world. Families split when one became a Christian and the other did not. The world persecutes Christians because their values and character seem to be outside the norm.

But the persecuted should shout for joy! Jesus is promising that the reward for persecution for His sake is the Kingdom of Heaven, and that’s Good News! Hope to see you there!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship