Around the world, thousands of the men, women and children face persecution and even death simply because they identify themselves as followers of Jesus Christ. Yet here in America we tend to think of religious persecution as a rarity instead of reality. We tend to think that Jesus suggested that His followers might face some persecution when the truth is that he clearly declared that anyone who worships Him and strives to live their lives according to His principles; will face persecution and even death! No suggestion, no "might" or "if's" but a certainty. In the last, and most troubling of his Beatitudes, Jesus makes it very clear what his followers can expect from this world. Persecution is a given - but He also suggest it is an incredible gift as well. Maybe the reason many have not or don't face persecution in America today is that those around us have not seen Jesus in our actions and words. Maybe we have become so much like the culture that we no longer stand out or stand up. Listen in to discover not only how persecution can bring a blessing, but how it is the ultimate result of living the other seven Beatitudes. From Matthew 5:10-12Thank you for listening to our podcast and we would love for you to subscribe to our page and share with others. Join us for our weekly worship online at www.firstbaptistblowingrock.com or our Youtube page. Contact us at office@firstbaptistblowingrock.com or by phone @ 828-295-7715