By Diana MG Achieng, missionary to Kenya
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake” (Matthew 5:10)
One of the blessings listed by Jesus Christ in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:3-11 is persecution for righteousness’s sake.
I am sure you are wondering: Is persecution a good thing?
Being subjected to hostility, ill-treatment, cruelty or unfairness because of your belief is certainly not a good thing or something anyone would look forward to.
Why then did Jesus tell us that those who are persecuted for righteousness sake are blessed?
While persecution is deemed as damaging, it has its benefits in the life of a believer and the work of Jesus Christ. The world often equates blessing with comfort, status, and success; whilst Jesus says that persecution for righteousness is not only to be expected but is honorable. 1 Peter 3:14 states that we are blessed even when we suffer and that we should not be afraid.
Since persecution may occur at some point in a believer’s life, it is necessary to stand firm in faith despite opposition.
Persecution:
- Tests our faith to stand with God.
God tests His people to see whether they are loyal to Him. In Deuteronomy 8:2, God stated that He humbled the Israelites and tested them to know what was in their hearts and whether they would keep or not keep His commandments. Many people are not able to stand in the faith when trouble arises. Persecution exposes those with little faith because they will likely abandon it. But those who persevere to the end show their commitment to God.
- Builds us up personally and spiritually.
Persecution builds our character and teaches believers about perseverance, humility, and relying on God. Romans 5:3-5 states that we should glory in suffering because it produces perseverance, character, and hope which does not put us to shame. Jesus experienced persecution for righteousness despite being without sin, yet He remained steadfast until the end.
- Testifies of Jesus Christ.
To be persecuted for righteousness sake, means to suffer by living according to God’s standards. It is being mistreated not because of wrongdoing, but because of one’s obedience to Jesus Christ. If you choose truth over disobedience and holiness over vanity, you may be mocked, ridiculed, rejected, falsely accused, or harmed.
It is important to note that even during persecution, we should pray more and pray for those who persecute us. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus said we should love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who spitefully use and persecute us.
In the end, this verse gives us the courage to stand unwaveringly in Jesus Christ. We know that God’s approval for us supersedes any worldly persecution we may encounter. If we endure persecution for righteousness’ sake, the promise attached to this Scripture is receiving the Kingdom of Heaven.
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