Persecution.
First let’s explore what it means in the New Testament.
What does the word here mean?
Here’s the definition.
διώκωTransliteration: diōkō
Pronunciation: dee-o’-koPart of Speech: verbRoot Word (Etymology): A prolonged (and causative) form of a primary verb dio (to flee; cf the base of δειλός (G1169) and διάκονος (G1249))TDNT
Reference: 2:229,177
Outline of Biblical Usage:
to make to run or flee, put to flight, drive awayto run swiftly in order to catch a person or thing, to run afterto press on: figuratively of one who in a race runs swiftly to reach the goalto pursue (in a hostile manner)in any way whatever to harass, trouble, molest oneto persecuteto be mistreated, suffer persecution on account of somethingwithout the idea of hostility, to run after, follow after: someonemetaph., to pursueto seek after eagerly, earnestly endeavour to acquire
Reference for this is from www.blueletterbible.org.
So if you’ve been persecuted there is a neat verse in Matthew 5:10. In this verse it speaks about persecution.
Matthew 5:10 (NKJV) Blessed [are ]those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
What are we to DO when this happens.
Well look at the above verse again? It says IF or since you are being persecuted. Then THEIRS Is the kingdom of heaven! Hallelujah proof that your his hurting child!
But then listen to what the apostles from the first century who were being beaten and persecuted when they were starting the first churches ever?
“So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.”Acts 5:41 NKJV
They rejoiced! Really? But how? And why?
Because they were counted WORTHY to suffer. Wow really yes! This IS the word of God!
They rejoiced and we’re rejoicing that they were suffering shame for the name of jesus!
Powerful unpopular truth. But true nonetheless.
If your suffering today don’t lose heart. Keep praying for healing and open doors. Let him reveal what’s to come.
Read the rest of Matthew 5:11-12 for encouragement.
Matthew 5:11-12 (NKJV) 11 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great [is] your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
I pray this touches to in the deepest hurt your carrying today! Let God speak to you through it. And ENCOURAGE your heart!
Dwelling In Jesus Care 