“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”    Matthew 5:10  We need to understand what religious persecution is not.

• Much of what we have experienced can hardly be considered persecution.

 We should also understand what real persecution is.

• Many believers around the world still suffer for their faith.

 Most of all, we should follow Christ’s way of responding.

•  Be Ready for trials to come because of your faith.
•  Rely on God for the strength to endure and remain faithful.
•  Respond with love toward those who do you wrong.
•  Relocate when prudent, following God’s guidance.
•  Resist compromise in your personal walk with Christ.
•  Rejoice in the privilege of suffering for the Savior who died for you, and for the promised reward to come!

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”   Matthew 5:8  People operate in three different ways: 2. The Peace-Fakers 3. The Peace-Makers We bear the likeness of God when we strive to bring peace into the world—peace between people and helping people find peace with God.  There is no greater honor than to be called a child of God!

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”   Matthew 5:8 THE PROPERTIES OF PURITY - Psalm 24:3-4 THE PLACE OF PURITY - Proverbs 4:23 THE PROCESS OF PURITY - Ezekiel 36:26 THE PROMISE OF PURITY - 1 John 3:2-3