When to Rejoice

Rejoice when persecuted! We are to be exceedingly glad whenever our identifying with Jesus results in us being sinned against!

1. We stand in solidarity with everyone persecuted across the body of Christ. (v.10a)
2. Persecuted for what? "for righteousness' sake," (v.10a), "…on My account (said Jesus)" (v.11b)
3. Persecution is typical life in God's kingdom! "theirs is the kingdom of heaven"! (compare v. 3 and v.10, the beatitude bookends!)
4. We must think differently; persecution is better than winning the lottery! "for your reward in heaven is great." (v.11-12a)
5. Being persecuted was typical for the prophets (and then Jesus)! Outcome: they are all now in heaven. Then count us in! (v.12b)
   How could anyone be pleased to be persecuted? Acts 5:41
   To whom does the kingdom belong? Mt.19:14;25:34, Heb.11:32-40
   Who will be hated on account of Jesus? Mt. 10:22; 23:30,37
   What happens when we are reviled for Christ? 1 Peter 3:14; 4:14