03.24.24 - Lead Pastor Bryce Gernand
Hello World - Blessed are those who are persecuted for doing right.
Questions for Reflection
Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12) Elsewhere, he said, “If people persecuted me, they will persecute you too.” (John 15:20)
Persecution, directly connected to living out our faith in Jesus, isn’t something most of us can even relate to. We have to be careful not to fall victim to the persecution complex, manufacturing conflicts in order to have something to rally behind. But it is a good time to ask ourselves a few questions: What if we do face true persecution? How will we respond when what we believe or how we live isn’t popular or accepted? When we’re in the minority? When it appears we’re on the losing team?
Peter wrote two letters in the NT. The first one is written to address these very questions from people who were right in the crucible of persecution due to their faith in Jesus. He wrote to remind them who they were; God’s chosen. He reminded them of the true zip code of their hope; it is not in this world and all it has to offer. He also reminded them that opposition brings opportunity. Which of these reminders do you need today?
There is persecution that happens, still today, in parts of our world. Take a moment and pray for these brothers and sisters in Christ.
Key Verse
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:10-12
If people persecuted me, they will persecute you too. John 15:20
Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. 1 Peter 1:7
Setlist
WE PRAISE YOU - Bethel Worship
LIVING HOPE - Bethel Worship
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME IT - Hillsong Worship
HOSANNA - Paul Baloche