PERSECUTED

(Message by Tanny Keng)

a) Introduction

a) In his longest recorded sermon, Jesus began by describing the traits he was looking for in his followers. He called those who lived out those traits blessed because God had something special in store for them. Each beatitude is an almost direct contraction of society's typical way of life. In the last beatitude, Jesus even points out that a serious effort to develop these traits is bound to create opposition. The best example of each trait is found in Jesus himself. If our goal is to become like him, the Beatitudes will challenge the way we live each day.

1. Beatitude: "Persecuted"

i) ¹⁰ Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:10 NKJV)

a) Old Testament anticipation: Isaiah 52:13; 53:12

i) ¹³ Behold, My Servant shall deal prudently; He shall be exalted and extolled and be very high. (Isaiah 52:13 NKJV)

ii) ¹² Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, And He shall divide the spoil with the strong, Because He poured out His soul unto death, And He was numbered with the transgressors,
And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors. (Isaiah 53:12 NKJV)

b) Clashing worldly values

i) Weak commitments.

c) God's reward

i) Inherit the kingdom of heaven.

d) How to develop this attitude (see 2 Timothy 3:12)

i) ¹² Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. (2 Timothy 3:12 NKJV)

The End ...