The Beatitudes: When My Faith Costs Me

11/09/2025|Pastor Aaron Perry

Experience & Encounter

These questions are an invitation to experience your life with God. Use them on your own or in community as you seek to follow Jesus.

1. Persecution is not simply opposition. Nor is persecution when someone mentions actual character faults or shortcomings. Christ’s blessing applies to those who are persecuted for righteousness or for his sake. Why do you think it is important to keep justice and Christ’s glory in mind when thinking about persecution?
2. Persecution is not a “one-size-fits-all” experience. Persecution can include a range of harms–including speaking ill of character, denying professional opportunities, threatening or inflicting physical harm, and more. Have you ever experienced what might be described as persecution? Pastor Aaron described three ways to be prepared for persecution: Be in the Word, Be in community, Believe in the body of Christ. Which of these most resonates with you?
3. We have come to the end of the Beatitudes—the pathway of true happiness because they are the pathway that Christ has walked. Re-read Matthew 5:1-12. Select two Beatitudes, two blessings of Christ, that you need to hold most tightly right now. Why did you select these Beatitudes?

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