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

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” NIV

Growing up, I was the biggest soccer fan. I wanted to be just like these players; the guys who were worldwide superstars by 18. Anything they wanted was at their fingertips. They got to travel the world playing the sport they loved and were treated like kings! I wanted that so bad.

Years would pass, and eventually I came to the (very rational) conclusion that I didn’t have the skill to play international soccer. More than that, I chose to give my life to Jesus and began to discover the life that comes with it.

In the book of Acts, the apostles are leading the church, and the gospel is spreading like wildfire. But the Jewish leaders hate this new revolution of Jesus worshippers. They are doing everything they can to stop them. The apostles are even arrested and beaten for their faith. Eventually the Jewish leaders (lacking evidence) reluctantly release them, ordering them to never speak of Jesus again...or else. But as they leave, the apostles don’t walk away grumbling; they leave rejoicing.

These men held Jesus in such high regard that the shameful things done to them on account of Him were viewed as blessings. To receive the same suffering as their Lord was something to rejoice in. 

Persecution of Christians is often a rarity in the West. But I can’t help but see a near future where Christians are shamed more and more for their worship of Jesus. Whether you have experienced this persecution or not, we ought to realize that the persecution we receive is not an indication we are doing something wrong, but in fact an indication that we are living the very way we should; looking like Jesus. 

looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

Jesus declares through His words and life, that in His Kingdom, persecution is expected, but moreover it’s actually a blessing. For the reward for persecution for righteousness’ sake is the Kingdom of heaven itself. 

I used to think that being treated like an international superstar was the thing to stake my life on. The entire world at my fingertips! If only I could be treated like one of those soccer players… but now I see something far more beautiful. A reward that holds far more power and beauty: to be treated like my Lord.

Written by Garrett Belzer