Untitled Sermon (3)

Blessed Are the Persecuted: Hope in Suffering

Bible Passage: Matthew 5:10-11

Background: Jesus in v. 9 has just spoken on the peacemakers, those who promote his Gospel truth. He then tells them that they will get the greatest title of being a SON of God! This title is reserved for those who follow after and obey the commands of their heavenly father. This is a privilege to be a Son of God, and this also builds into the beatitude that we will discuss tonight. It is a privilege when we are obedient to him, when things are going right and when they don’t.

Summary: In these verses from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declares a blessing upon those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, emphasizing that their reward in heaven is great. It far surpasses the pain and suffering that goes with following after God. The mockery is nothing to the one who is looking at his eternal heavenly reward. He is painting a wonderful picture of the beauty of heaven vs. the pain and torture of those who are coming against believers.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to find strength and hope in the midst of persecution, reminding them that they are not alone and their suffering for the sake of righteousness is acknowledged and rewarded by God. Let us remind ourselves that we often can get caught in the ditch of despair, and not look to the goodness of God and the teachable moments that we are in.

Teaching: The teaching emphasizes that persecution is not a sign of being abandoned by God but rather an affirmation of one’s commitment to living righteously in a fallen world. The joy that we know we serve a God that has experienced like we have, remember this is before Jesus is taken to the Cross and beaten and murdered in front of the crowd. He knows the pain that you have gone through, are going through, and will go through. Psalm 56:8-9 explains the ever present knowing God. “You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book? Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call. This i know, that God is for me.” He is for us!

How this passage could point to Christ: These verses point to Christ’s own suffering and persecution as the ultimate example of righteousness. He endured the ultimate persecution, fulfilling the promise that those who suffer for doing good will be blessed. He walked the walk, he is a God who was in the fire with Shad, Mesh, and Abendego. He is a God who dried the tears of David in the Psalms with words of hope when he was distressed, Psalms 23 is a perfect picture of the hope that God brings as the good shepherd to his people. Even when we walk in the valley of death, we will fear no evil for he is with us! His rod and staff comforts us, he prepares a table for us, our cup overflows in the presence of Jesus!

Big Idea: Enduring persecution for righteousness is a pathway to deeper faith and a richer reward in God's kingdom. David knew that in light of his present sufferings he was being taught something that he would be able to delight in later on in life.

What does the Bible Say about the word Blessed?

James 1:12- Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

Ps 34:8- taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

Prov 16:20- Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.

What does the Bible say about the word Persecuted?

John 15:20- Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.

2 Tim 3:12- Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

James 1:2–4- Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

1. P

Persecution is like the goldsmith’s hallmark on real silver and gold; it is one of the marks of a converted man.

J. C. Ryle

Matthew 5:10

Persecutions are in a way seals of adoption to the children of God.

John Calvin (French Reformer)

Perhaps highlight how these words offer solace and assurance that their struggles have value in God's kingdom. Maybe remind them that their heavenly reward far outweighs any earthly suffering. This recognition and promise of future joy might empower them to endure and persist in their righteous living, knowing they follow in Christ's footsteps.

2. Pride in Persecution

Matthew 5:11

Perhaps explore how Jesus reassures His followers that insults, lies, and slander for His name are not just to be expected but are part of the blessed life in God’s kingdom. You could suggest seeing such persecution as a badge of honor and a privilege, reflecting the honor Christ Himself received. Maybe invite listeners to find strength in the community of those who have walked this path before them, including Christ Himself.