Sermon on the Mount series message 7

Text: Matthew 5:1-12

The final beatitude presents a remarkable concept: persecution for Christ's sake should evoke joy, not despair. Jesus bookends His teaching with the simple declaration: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. As we return to the Sermon on the Mount, we wrap up the Beatitudes, which speak to both the entrance into and essence of Kingdom living. Those who suffer for Christ's sake find occasion for exceeding joy as the genuineness of faith is affirmed and our heavenly reward ensured.