Matthew 5:10

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven ~ Matthew 5:10


True godliness is usually attended with persecution. The truth is, Jesus died on the cross to take the curse of sin from us, not the cross. We are not shielded from suffering, and in fact Jesus warned his followers because of him they would suffer more than others. We carry Jesus in our heart, and the cross on our shoulders, but take heart, for Jesus is never parted from his cross. Persecution may not be aptly applied here in North America, but it is here in subtle ways. Persecution is the abuse of power used to harm another. In the Scriptures, persecution pertains to evil treatment on a religious account. It is the infliction of an injury, or the withholding of a right. In our society, we have become multi-cultural and multi-god. If I hold up my God as the only way to heaven an argument comes back there are many gods and many ways to heaven. “I just have to be a good person and I am entered through heavens gates” are the thoughts of some people today. Jesus said differently. He said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Some will take great offense when we speak in such a way. If you stand up for Christ, you will be persecuted. If you stand up for Christ, his kingdom will be yours. Blessed are those who dare to be righteous!

Pastor Julia

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