I. The basis for persecution

A. Conflict of values and standards between Jesus and the world

B. Jesus exposed darkness and righteous living exposes darkness
Everyone who does wicked things hates the light, and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.”
--John 3:20

C. If I am living out the first seven beatitudes, I will experience the eighth
"When the world hates you, remember it hated me before it hated you. The world would love you if you belonged to it, but you don't. I chose you to come out of the world, and so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A servant is not greater than the master.' Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you.”

"For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.”
--II Timothy 3:12

II. The benefits of persecution:

A. Being conformed more to Jesus’ image
"And when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.
--Acts 5:40-41

B. Laying up great rewards in heaven
Your challenge is to determine your values from the perspective of eternity.

C. Serving as an example for others who follow