Blessed In The Midst Of Persecution

SERMON: "Blessed In The Midst Of Persecution" - Matthew 5:10-12
While we don't readily identify with persecution in modern America, it has been the norm for Christians most of the time. We are thankful for not having to endure it, and yet there is a force to the witness of those who are faithful despite oppression. Since persecution takes various forms - from physical force, to political injustice, to shunning and insults - we must pray, not to be exempt from it, but to be faithful and even joyful in the process. Such a mindset is not possible unless one's hope is firmly set in the new heavens and new earth.