Persecuted for Righteousness?

(Matthew 5:10) (Galatians 5:23) When you choose to live in Christ’ righteousness, you will be persecuted.

1. What Persecution is

   1. Definition - to pursue
   2. Governments, people, Religious
   3. Why are the righteous persecuted? (Luke 16:15)
      1. Two roots:
         1. Love of something evil or untrue
         2. The need to justify that love
      2. The love of anything other than God will cause hatred toward those who love God John 3:20-21
   4. What Persecution is not
      1. It is not an inconvenience, or because you are a jerk (1 Peter 4:15)
      2. Not for a religious / Political reason
      3. It is not your opinion of yourself
      4. It is for righteousness’ sake

2. What Righteousness is

   1. Being like the Lord Jesus Christ
   2. Why are those around me without Christ not converting or persecuting? Two options
      1. Your light is hidden under a bushel. Galatians 5:11; 6:12-13
      2. You. Are letting your values show and the people around you are moving to one of the two options.
   3. John 15:18-20
   4. 2 Timothy 3:12
   5. What Righteousness is not
      1. It is not a set of rules
      2. It is not a set righteous arrogance

3. Inherit the Kingdom of Heaven

1. The poor is spirit also have this promise
2. The promise of righteousness is a front row seat in heaven (Revelation 7:9-17)

4. Gentleness
   1. Gentleness - mild
   2. Do you fight or will you suffer willingly for Jesus sake?
   3. Power under control. Not weakness.

What about you?

1. Have you ever faced opposition because of your faith?
2. Compare your life with the life of Jesus Christ, how are you doing?
3. Determine to live like Jesus did and stay faithful in the fight, the faith and to the finish.