• 1 Peter 4:12-16
    Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.
     
  • 1 Peter 2:18-23
    Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
    "Who committed no sin,
    Nor was deceit found in His mouth"; who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;
     
  • 1 Peter 3:13-14
    And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. "And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled."
     
  • 2 Timothy 3:10-12
    But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
     
  • 1 Peter 4:19
    Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
     
  • Philippians 3:10-11
    that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.
     
  • Hebrews 12:2-3
    looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
     
For more scripture references, please see Bible verses for Suffering, for Righteousness' Sake


Resources

The Fifth Seal (Part Two)

'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Persecution and martyrdom are not popular topics among Christians, but they are facts. The fifth seal shows the cry of the martyrs and God's response.


What Did Jesus Do?

'Ready Answer' by Staff

We have all seen 'WWJD?' on bracelets, T-shirts, and the like. Perhaps a better question is, "What *did* Jesus do?" because He left us the perfect example.


Persecution (1993)

Sermonette by Martin G. Collins

Christians have been subject to psychological abuse as well as torture. Peter says that persecution is inevitable and is often triggered by good works


Persecution

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Although many have gone through sore trials, virtually no one has gone through the nightmarish persecutions suffered by the early Christians in Imperial Rome.


Wilderness Wandering (Part Four)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

We share in Christ's suffering, realizing that glory follows suffering. It may involve enduring hardship, deprivation, duress, and outright boredom.


The Beatitudes, Part 8: Blessed Are the Persecuted

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

Persecution is a fact of life for a Christian. Jesus Christ says we are blessed if we are persecuted for righteousness' sake — here's why.


Are You Worthy of Your Calling?

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Paul encourages the Thessalonians to thank God for their salvation, surrender without complaint, ask God for wisdom, and look for opportunities to serve.


Facing Times of Stress: Forewarned of Persecution!

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Under the best of times, God's people are not immune to persecution. Persecution for righteousness' sake is evidence that God's people have Christ's Spirit.



For more resources, please see the library topic for Suffering, for Righteousness' Sake