“Persecution Is a Blessing In Our Relationship with God”

FOCUS

It’s a sad day when someone discovers they’ve experienced the age-old tactic known as “bait & switch.” It’s when someone presents, offers or attempts to sell something to you only for you to find out after the fact that they either withheld or misrepresented something really important that likely would have resulted in you refusing whatever they were presenting, offering or attempting to sell.

Thankfully that’s something God never does. This last beatitude is the only one that gets three verses. It’s as though God wants to be sure we know that what we’re embracing concerning this kingdom into which He is calling us is going to carry a hurt & heartache that is real. Yet through it all, come what may, we need to know & remember the blessings far outweigh the burdens for now & forever. And, that in this life, persecution is simply the clash between two irreconcilable value systems.

Persecution …

1. comes with being a believer in Christ.

The same world that persecuted & rejected Christ is going to persecute & reject us too.

Matthew 5:10-12

2. will increase as these last days unfold.

You can count on it & so you need to be ready for it.

Acts 5:17-42 / 2 Timothy 3:10-17 (especially v12)

Making It Real

1] Do you see how inevitable this is?

2] How are you preparing for this knowing it’s ahead?

Action Step

Remembering there’s a difference between being persecuted for the sake of Christ & blowback for being an obnoxious religious weirdo, prayerfully recommit to following God no matter the cost knowing it’ll cost for sure.

Notes

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Cornerstone Community Church 5344 Fishcreek Rd Stow OH 44224

Pastor Dan Page June 6, 2021 www.ccc-stow.faithlifesites.com