Nuggets of Truth – The Persecuted

The Sermon on the Mount is the largest recorded sermon given by Jesus to His followers. He wanted to prepare them, and us, to live a radically different life than what we see in the world. As true disciples we will experience every beatitude at some point in our lives, which means that we will also be blessed as promised. Nuggets of Truth are taken from the Sermon on the Mount and presented from the Message translation of the Bible. My hope is that you will find encouragement and connection with each passage.

You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom. – Matthew 5:10

Just a few weeks ago the world watched the Super Bowl. Some for the game, some the ads and some the half time show. While I’m not a football fan I’m always curious about the ads. The amount of money for each ad is astonishing and the creativity never ceases to be amazing.

This year my favorite ads were the “He Gets Us” ads about Jesus. I was not only surprised by the ads, but thrilled that millions of viewers worldwide were able to get a few brief messages about truth. You can view the ads at the following links if you missed them. #1 – He Gets Us and #2 Love Your Enemies

Sadly it was not a surprise that they were met with opposition, most of which was from some of the senators who are in office to serve this nation that was founded under the God We Trust. Some of their arguements were that the ads promoted fascism, a governmental system led by a dictator with complete power, and others stating that the money spent should have been used to provide housing for the needy.

Regardless of their opposition, I believe God won that day. The message of His love was heard my millions and their arguements proved their single minded views and agendas. You didn’t hear them complaining that the millons spent on the M&M and beer ads should have been used for housing. Nor that the outrageous cost involved not only for the game, but the half time show could have fed millions.

Their attack was on God. Their attack was on those sharing that message. Their attack backfired as the press gave additional coverage to their complaints and even more people sought out the message to see what they were talking about, resulting in the Truth being seen and heard over and over again. Praise God!