Happy Are the Persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12) | Pastor Hayden Thomas
Weekend Sermons Podcast · Compass Bible Church Hill Country
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Show Notes
Title: Happy Are the Persecuted
Preaching Point: We need to rejoice in every suffering associated with our connection to Christ, knowing that our persecution is proof of our heavenly citizenship and that all our suffering for Christ comes with the promise of great reward in heaven.
Main Text: Matthew 5:10–12 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Teaching Points:
- Stand Out in a Sinful World v10
- Be Willing to Be Counted with Christ vv11,12b
- Stay Focused on Your Future with Christ vv10b,12
Application Questions
- What is one observation or application you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?
- Read Philippians 1:27–29 and Philippians 2:14–18. Consider how these verses exhort you to stand out in a sinful world. How is suffering and standing firm in Christ profitable for assurance of your faith and proof of the world's coming condemnation outside of Christ?
- Why should we see persecution for our faith as more than a possibility if we live out our faith according to the beatitudes?
- Read 1 Peter 3:14–17. Why is trusting God’s sovereignty in suffering for Christ necessary to remain faithful in our culture?
- Read Acts 5:40–42. How does the attitude of Peter and the apostles give you a resolve to be willing to be counted with Christ even when that association includes persecution?
- In what ways are Christians persecuted today in North America?
- Do a quick internet search for “Christian persecution in the world today.” Write down your thoughts on the biblical realities of suffering that our brothers and sisters in Christ endure around the world?
- Read 1 Peter 4:12-16 and Romans 8:18-25. What can you do this week to stay focused on your future with Christ in the midst of increasing hostility toward the Christian faith?