Matthew 5:11
Chuck Smith teaches that Christians should rejoice in persecution because it is a sign that they are identified with Christ and are being used by God.
Chuck Smith emphasizes that being persecuted for Christ's sake is a mark of true Christian identity, distinguishing believers from others. He explains that Christians should not retaliate or harbor resentment during persecution, but instead rejoice because it signifies their alignment with God's servants and their identification with Christ. The sermon encourages believers to maintain a heavenly perspective, understanding that their trials are proof of their future hope and reward in Christ. Smith clarifies that the joy comes not from the persecution itself, but from the deeper spiritual truths it reveals.
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I. NOT BLESSED ARE THE PERSECUTED BECAUSE THEY ARE OVER ZEALOUS.
A. Some in worship think they must say amen - hallelujah.
II. WHAT ISA CHRISTIAN?
A. Unlike anyone else.
B. Life controlled and dominated by Jesus Christ, "For my sake."
C. His life and thoughts controlled by heaven.
Ill. HOW HE FACES PERSECUTION.
A. Must not retaliate.
B. Must not feel resentment.
C. Must never be depressed by persecution. "Rejoice and be exceeding glad."
IV. NOT TO REJOICE IN MERE FACT OF PERSECUTION - REGRET.
V. REJOICES IN.
A. You are like God's servants.
B. You are identified with Christ.
C. Proof of where we are going.
VI. WHAT IS THE REWARD?
Sermon Outline
- Not Blessed Are the Persecuted points: - Some in worship think they must say amen - hallelujah.
- What is a Christian? points: - Unlike anyone else - Life controlled and dominated by Jesus Christ, 'For my sake.' - His life and thoughts controlled by heaven
- How He Faces Persecution points: - Must not retaliate - Must not feel resentment - Must never be depressed by persecution. 'Rejoice and be exceeding glad.'
- Not to Rejoice in Mere Fact of Persecution - Regret points: - Rejoices in - You are like God's servants - You are identified with Christ - Proof of where we are going
- What is the Reward? points: null
Key Quotes
“''Rejoice and be exceeding glad.''” — Chuck Smith
“''For my sake.''” — Chuck Smith
“Unlike anyone else” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- As a Christian, you should rejoice in persecution because it is a sign that you are identified with Christ.
- The key to facing persecution is to have your life controlled and dominated by Jesus Christ.
- Persecution is a proof of where we are going, and it is a reward for being a Christian.