The Persecuted

The Persecuted

Pastor Blake Hanson 11.30.25 

God wants us to be . 

(GK Makarios): happy, fortunate, blissful (9x)

Matthew 5:2–12 (ESV)

2And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: 

3“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

4“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 

5“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 

6“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 

7“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. 

8“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 

9“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 

10“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

11“Blessed are you when others revile (RUH-VILE) you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 

12Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 10:22 (NLT)

22And all nations will hate you because you are my followers. But everyone who endures to the end will be saved.

HATED BUT HAPPY…

1.  PERSECUTION IS NOT A SIGN OF GOD’S , IT’S PROOF OF HIS PRESENCE. 

2 Timothy 3:12 (ESV)

12Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,

Hebrews 11:26 (ESV)

26He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking to the reward.

Acts 5:41 (ESV)

41Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.

Types of Persecution: 

Persecution 

Insults

Accusations  

.  

2.  PERSECUTION DOESN’T CELEBRATE HURT BUT LOOKS FORWARD TO . 

Psalm 30:5 (ESV)

5Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.

Romans 8:18–19 (ESV)

18For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 

19For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.

3.  PERSECUTION ISN’T TO BE AVOIDED, IT’S TO BE ENDURED WITH .

Philippians 1:29 (NLT)

29For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.

Matthew 10:22 (ESV)

22and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

Persecution Fuels Purpose

1.   it 

1 Peter 4:12 (ESV)

12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

2.   it. 

Philippians 3:10 (ESV)

10that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

3.   it 

James 1:12 (ESV)

12Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

4.   it 

Philippians 1:12 (ESV)

12I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel,

Every attack is an opportunity to advance the gospel. 

NOTES

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