AND YOU SHALL BE MY DISCIPLES – Lesson #3
- Rejoice in persecution
“10 “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.
12 “Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10–12).
WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
First, let me define these words so we can get a clearer understanding.
We are told to Rejoice: to rejoice, be glad, to rejoice exceedingly, to be well, thrive.
We are told we will be Persecuted: dioko = to make to run or flee, put to flight, drive away in a hostile manner; to harass, trouble, molest one.
The word “persecuted” comes from the world “Diakonos” which translates DEACON, which is a servant of God, a minister.
Why and how do you rejoice when being harassed or terrorized? You cannot and you should not unless something unusual, something exceptional is happening.
What we discover is that Jesus is teaching about your “Sanctification” and He is saying that you will be purged, refined and been restored, when you follow Him and are fully surrendered to God and His Will.
Persecution is a necessary and inevitable step. You are walking in the step of Jesus, in His likeness, doing His Will and His Works.
HOW MUST YOU DO IT? ____________________________
HOW YOU MUST TEACH IT? ________________________
Your reward in heaven is great. Great, indeed.
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
Whitestone Fellowship 