Matthew 5:10-12

The paradoxical nature of the beatitudes is perhaps most pronounced in this last statement: “blessed are those who are persecuted.”  In our world the only way persecuted people can be happy is if they are delusional.  But Jesus’ words here are not the reflection of One who is emotionally unbalanced.  This is the last of the teachings on happiness because when one comes to the place where he is happy when persecuted that person has found the happiness at the deepest level.

How can there be happiness in persecution?  The answer is found in the cause of the persecution.  It is being pursued (this is the meaning of the term persecuted) for righteousness sake (v10), for My sake (v11).  This is not persecution because I am obnoxious in my relationships with the people of the world.  Nor is it mistreatment because I have mistreated others.  Nor is it ridicule of my alma mater, my job, my neighborhood, my car or any other status symbol.  The cause of this persecution is Christ.  In heaven’s kingdom He is the King.  We are His servants.  When the servants are persecuted they know it is not about them.  They don’t take it personally but recognize that indeed it is an honor and privilege to so represent their King.  Such was the experience of the apostles in Acts 5:41-42.  To rejoice in this persecution is to truly know Christ (Phil 3:10), to recognize His preeminence (Col 1:18), and to see that He is your life (Col. 3:4).

There are two other lesser but important thoughts that contribute to this happiness.  One is that it brings reward, a reward we begin to experience in this life but which is complete and most satisfying in heaven. In v10 it is said theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  We begin now to experience Christ’s kingdom in the sense that persecution brings opportunity to grow in poverty of spirit (as we become aware of our own weaknesses and needs), develop holiness (as we see Christ formed in us), and declare God’s glory in ways we had never imagined before.  The ultimate reward will be found at the judgment seat of Christ where the faithful believer will hear well done thou good and faithful servant (Mt. 25:21).  Believers know no greater joy than that they have pleased the One who gave His life for them and taught them to suffer for righteousness’ sake.

Last, those persecuted for Christ find joy in the thought that in so doing they join a long list of predecessors.  As Jesus spoke these words He referred to the prophets of Old Testament days such as Elijah, Hanani, Jeremiah, and Zechariah.  Today believers can add names such as Stephen, the Apostles, Silas, and Barnabas.  There can be added the countless names of saints through the history of the Church, even to today where persecution is common place around the world.  More than any name is the name of Christ Himself who has made clear to us: No servant is greater than his Master. If they persecuted me they will persecute you (John 15:20). 

Believer, do you see that happiness is not found in favorable circumstances, fair treatment, or earthly recognition?  Do you see that happiness is truly found in the exaltation of Jesus Christ?