Religion & Spirituality
Now, we consider Matthew 5:10-12, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” With this statement, we find the same promise as the first Beatitude: the kingdom of heaven belonged to those who were poor in spirit, and now it belongs to those who are persecuted. Not only is this an “inclusio” literarily (providing a bookend) which makes this section a complete whole, it also seems there is a connection between the two. What is it? Is persecution good in and of itself? If we are not persecuted, how can we support or identify with those who are?