s20080727m_What Jesus Teach Me To Do With Persecution

What Jesus Teach Me To Do With Persecution

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5.10

25 As Simon Peter stood warming himself, he was asked, “You are not one of his disciples, are you?”

He denied it, saying, “I am not.” 26 One of the high priest’s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, “Didn’t I see you with him in the olive grove?” 27 Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow. John 18.25-27

Jesus Teaches Me I Will Not Deny Him If:

·         I [EXPECT HOSTILITY] From the World.

18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20 Remember the words I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master. ’If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me. John 15.18-21

·         I [react gently and respectfully] To My Persecutors.

13 Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” 15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 1 Peter 3.13-16

·         I Will Not [fear] Those Who Oppose Me

27a Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ… 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Phil 1.27a-30

·         I Know I Have a [great reward] Waiting for Me.

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5.11-12

answer key: Expect Hostility, React Gently and Respectfully, Fear, Great Reward