I am a Jesus pusher!!! Persecution must be seen in the context of righteousness. There is a strong focus in the Beatitude on righteousness’ sake. It is an amazing statement. In many English translations the word “for” is there twice (Matthew 5:10). In the statement, “for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” the Greek word translated for is “hoti.” It introduces the object, content, or argument to which the preceding word refers. In our Beatitudes, “hoti” appears to give the reason or argument for the congratulations. In other words, congratulations go to the persecuted ones because they are the “kingdom of heaven.” But the statement “for righteousness’ sake” is a different word. Actually “for sake” is a translation of the Greek word “heneka.” It means “for this cause” or “for this reason.” Jesus clearly states why the persecuted one is suffering such treatment. It is because of righteousness. The Greek word “dikaiosune,” translated righteousness is used both in the Old and New Testaments as the stated commanded by God and standing the test of His judgment.
In light of this cause, let us examine the “completeness of the cause.” If the underlying cause of persecution is righteousness and if it is described as “a state commanded by God which stands the test of His judgment,” then the cause is far beyond any activity. You cannot simply eliminate a deed connected to Christian ceremonies that might offend a non-believer. Righteousness is actually all of the Beatitudes brought together. All of the Beatitudes describe the state of righteousness in which the believer dwells. He is the helpless one who merges with Jesus. This merger causes persecution. But it is a state of blessedness because of Jesus. I am a Jesus pusher!!!