Journey WitnessesSample

At the beginning of the famous Sermon on the Mount, we are introduced to what is commonly known as the Beatitudes. Those most captivated by the message of Jesus were those Jesus called blessed. The first 11 verses of Chapter 5 introduce what it means and how it means to be blessed. Nine times Jesus repeats, Blessed are…The idea of blessing in this context is speaking of the promise of God to care for those who earnestly seek after Him. It is an invitation to enter into the grace that God offers.

Verses 11 and 12 wrap up this section with a sobering reminder that even though the Messiah has come, persecution is still very much a reality. The verses in Chapter 5 leading up to 11 and 12 point to a current reality, whereas verses 11 and 12 speak of the near future. The Beatitudes point to the countercultural reality of the Christian life, but also encourage the imitation of Christ in the midst of inevitable suffering. 

The Beatitudes are more than a list of good things Christians should do. They are an assurance that if we suffer for being Christians, it will be worth it. What blessings have you experienced in the midst of being insulted or persecuted because of your faith?