The Cost of Obedience

How often do you, or have you ever, thought to yourself or shared with the Lord in prayer, “God, thank you for allowing me to be persecuted.” There is a good chance this isn’t something you have prayed or even thought about before. Persecution is never fun, it's not desirable, it's something that we as Christians hope we never find ourselves in. But why is Jesus saying that the one who is persecuted for righteousness sake is someone who is blessed, or happy? Jesus says, “and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 10:22). Jesus points to a reality that if you are a follower of Christ, living out what He calls us to, the world will hate us. Those who are outside of relationship with Christ do not desire the things of God, but desire the things of this world.

As Christians, we are called to not be conformed to this world (Romans 12:2), so our obedience will not be liked by the world. What is encouraging about this text is the reward that follows our persecution, that we receive the kingdom of heaven. Instead of seeking satisfaction on this earth that will fail, we seek the eternal kingdom that is before us in Christ. We can be like the Apostles, who after being imprisoned say, “Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name” (Acts 5:41). Suffering for the sake of Christ will bring an eternal reward. Are you willing to trust His good plan?

Respond with any questions, prayer requests, or encouragement!

In Christ,

Josh Hernandez