What did Jesus say about Persecution?

What did Jesus say about Persecution?

The teachings of Jesus Christ are often seen as a source of hope, comfort, and peace in times of hardship and suffering. In the New Testament, Jesus speaks often of persecution and the trials we are likely to face on our journey of faith. In this blog post, we will explore some of Jesus’ words on persecution and the importance of enduring it in the name of the Lord. We will also look into the various ways Jesus suggests we should act in the face of persecution. 

This post is meant to serve as a source of encouragement and guidance for those who are facing persecution in their lives. God’s Word speaks to these issues and brings us closer to Him and each other. Jesus’ words are a reminder to never give up on our faith and to continue striving to live as a true disciple of Christ.

1. Jesus Warned Believers about Suffering for His Name

Jesus was very clear with his followers that they would face suffering and persecution because of their belief in Him. In Luke 21:12-19 He warned them that they would be arrested, persecuted, and even put to death for their testimony. He warned that these trials would come from the Jews, the Gentiles, and the rulers of the land. He encouraged them to remain strong and not give in to the pressure, but to remain steadfast in their faith. Jesus also promised that they would be rewarded for their faithfulness in the end. He promised that they would be protected by God and would be given the strength to endure even the most brutal of sufferings.

2. Jesus Commanded His Followers to Love their Enemies

Jesus commanded His followers to love their enemies, even if they are actively persecuting them. This was an incredibly difficult command, but one that was essential to Jesus’ message and His example. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus says, “But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” Jesus was teaching that His followers should not return evil for evil, but instead they should actively love those who oppose them. This is true even in the face of persecution.

3. Jesus Promised Reward for Bearing Persecution

One of the primary teachings of Jesus was that those who bear persecution with patience and faith will be rewarded. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10). He also said, “Whoever endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13). Clearly, Jesus was teaching that those who suffer for their faith will be rewarded in the end. This teaching applies to anyone who is persecuted for any reason, including religious persecution. Jesus’s promise of reward for bearing persecution gives hope to those who are suffering. It also speaks to the power of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.

4. Jesus said Persecution can be an Opportunity for Witness

In the New Testament, Jesus addressed the issue of persecution on several occasions, warning his disciples that they would encounter it. In Matthew 5:11-12, he said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Jesus was teaching his followers that even though it will be difficult to be persecuted, it can be an opportunity to share the gospel with others and bring glory to God. With grace and courage, those who are persecuted can use the opportunity to witness to others and show them the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ.

5. Jesus taught Perseverance in Persecution and Endurance of Suffering

Jesus taught that persecution and suffering were inevitable for those who follow Him, yet they should not be feared. In His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:10-12), Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Jesus equated suffering for righteousness as a blessing, as it was a sign that one was following Him and would ultimately be rewarded in heaven. Jesus also taught perseverance in the face of persecution and suffering. He said, “Behold, I have told you these things beforehand so that when they come to pass, you may not be stumbled.” (Matthew 24:25). He wanted His followers to be prepared for the times of persecution they might face, so they could endure and remain faithful.

In conclusion, Jesus was clear about the reality of persecution for those who choose to follow him. He comforted his disciples and promised that all who are persecuted for his name’s sake, will be rewarded in heaven. He reminded them that they were not alone, and that God was with them. He promised that, while they would suffer in this world, they would be rewarded in the world to come. Jesus’ words of comfort and assurance are still relevant today and give us the strength to persevere in the face of persecution.