“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10)
“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted…” (2 Timothy 3:12)
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2, 3)
“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you…if you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” (1 Peter 4:12, 14)
“Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.” (1 John 3:13)
Today the verses above carry exceptional authority as they are from Peter, James, John, the Apostle Paul and Matthew, who is quoting Jesus. They are all addressing the same issue…persecution for righteousness’ sake. Why? Because persecution is a reality in the life of a disciple of Jesus Christ and we should be prepared. Like the early Christians we have a false expectation that when we live a godly life that we will be appreciated by the world around us. These disciples are saying nothing could be further from the truth. These verses bring us face to face with reality of the persecution that comes to the follower of Jesus. Their message is consistent and it approaches two problems with our worldly viewpoint of this type of suffering.
First, don’t be surprised! It is amazing that we think the world will love us if we desire to live a godly life. Paul says that it is quite the contrary and history proves him right. Looking at this beatitude over the last few days has helped us to understand that the world hates anything that exposes it’s imperfections and threatens its sinful pursuits. Those who embrace the darkness of their self centered lifestyles will not only resist the light…they will persecute it. Don’t be surprised! It’s not something “strange” or new. It isn’t because you are not doing it right. In fact, quite the opposite, it can be evidence that you are doing it right.
Second, our panel of disciples tell us to consider it a blessing…”a joy”, according to James. This turns our view of suffering upside down. For most of us “blessing” is good health, comfortable living, and good friends. These are truly blessings, no doubt, but we are challenged to see even our trials as blessings from God. Especially those that come because we desire to live a godly life.
So today don’t be afraid to live the godly life that God has called you to live and…don’t be surprised by the reactions of the world around you. It might not be what you expected, but if we believe the words of these faithful disciples, we should consider it a blessing.
Blessings.