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Explanation for:
Matthew
5
:
10
Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
14
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"He notably states, or declares, that it is for the sake of righteousness, for many endure persecution because of their transgressions and are not considered just. The eighth beatitude of authentic circumcision, though, ultimately culminates in martyrdom."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"To avoid the misconception that peace is always commendable (Matthew 5:9), Christ has provided this instruction: Blessed are those who face exile for the cause of righteousness—meaning those who endure persecution for their moral convictions, for supporting others, and for their devotion to God, as He often associates the complete reasoning of the soul with righteousness."},{"author-name":"Gregory of Nyssa","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88c197597540c9caa3754_Gregory%20of%20Nyssa.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The significance of the profound teachings elevates the exploration of this statement to a higher understanding. However, I find it beneficial to first clarify what the mystery of the eighth day, alongside the themes of purification and circumcision, represents in the context of the Prophets, as reflected in the titles of the two Psalms. Both purification and circumcision are fulfilled according to the Law on the eighth day, which may connect to the eighth beatitude, serving as the peak of all blessings and symbolizing a complete ascent towards goodness. The Prophet subtly alludes to the day of resurrection with the eighth, while purification symbolizes the return of the defiled soul to its original state of purity, and circumcision can be viewed as shedding the lifeless coverings that result from disobedience. Thus, the eighth beatitude embodies the restoration to heavenly joy for those trapped in bondage, who are once again beckoned into the Kingdom. The Lord states, \\"Blessed are they that are cast out for my sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.\\" This marks the culmination of God's endeavors, rewarding efforts and the tribulations endured, allowing them to partake in the Kingdom of Heaven. The hope of a blessed outcome no longer revolves around the transient and unstable, for the unstable resides on earth, while the unchanging and eternal realm belongs to heaven. Here, all is orderly and purposeful, fulfilling its destiny. \\n\\nTherefore, consider the abundance of this gift: the profound dignity offered is not in contradiction but rather, it illuminates the eternal constancy of the divine promise. However, I find a perplexity in the Lord’s initial pronouncement that those who are poor in spirit and those persecuted for His sake share the same reward. If their rewards are equal, does that not imply their deeds are also equivalent? After denoting the separation of the Gentiles from the righteous and extending an invitation to the heavenly kingdom, He cites further reasons for such honor. In discussing compassion, social connection, and mutual love, He omits references to poverty of spirit and persecution, which could present a surface-level dissimilarity. After all, what do being impoverished and being persecuted have in common? Similarly, how do acts of kindness align with such states? When one serves the needy, clothes the naked, or shelters a traveler, these acts significantly differ from the experiences of the impoverished and persecuted. The former alleviates others' suffering, while the latter categories themselves constantly require healing. Nonetheless, the ultimate goal remains consistent; both the poor in spirit, the persecuted, and those who extend compassion will receive elevation to the heavens. Thus, we might conclude that all paths contributing to this singular end are deeply interconnected.\\n\\nPoverty is akin to exile, and love for the poor does not stray far from experiencing such poverty. It could be beneficial to dissect the present discourse, seeking common ground and deeper meaning. Blessed are those exiled for righteousness’ sake. From where and by whom are they cast out? The term draws us towards the realm of martyrs and faith's journey. Persecution indicates heightened diligence or suggests an impending victory. Those enduring trials cannot triumph without overcoming their companions in affliction. Therefore, whether one strives for the highest calling (Philippians 3:14) or is persecuted for pursuing this honor, each bears the company of either a fellow traveler or a foe. In proclaiming the blessedness tied to the hope conveyed by these final words, the Lord introduces a pivotal notion akin to a crown. It is indeed a blessing to endure persecution for the Lord. Why so? Because the expulsion of wickedness fosters a commitment to goodness, and distancing oneself from evil leads to an encounter with the Highest Good, the Lord Himself, to whom the persecuted draw near.\\n\\nThus, the truly blessed individual finds their strength in the enemy’s challenge. Humanity’s existence oscillates between good and evil; he who falters in pursuit of hope plunges into despair, while he who turns from sin rises toward righteousness. While the trials inflicted by persecutors may seem harsh, the ultimate purpose of the martyrs’ tribulations transcends all earthly joy. This principle can be illustrated through examples: it is universally recognized that enduring malice is far more arduous than basking in affection. Indeed, such burdens often serve as pathways to well-being, as reflected in the life of Joseph, maligned by his brothers but eventually rising to greatness, perhaps only because envy paved the way through treachery. If someone foresaw Joseph’s elevation from such trials and proclaimed, “You will be blessed when maligned,” Joseph may have initially doubted the truth of this promise, perceiving only present miseries.\\n\\nSimilarly, the pains inflicted by oppressors render the hope of a heavenly reward through suffering ungraspable to those afflicted. Yet, understanding human frailty, the Lord calls upon the vulnerable to recognize the ultimate goals of their endeavors; thus, the hope of heaven empowers them to overcome momentary trials. The great Stephen, stoned from all sides, found joy akin to refreshing dew, eagerly accepting stones hurled at him, and praying for the forgiveness of his murderers. For he too heard the promises and realized that the anticipated rewards aligned with the revelations. As he confessed, heaven opened before him, revealing the glory of God and Himself; the One who supports those afflicted in their endeavors. The presence of the Most High (Acts 7:55) hints at the assistance granted to the faithful. This illustrates that no one is more blessed than the individual who suffers for the Lord's name, as they are granted the coexistence of the Divine.\\n\\nIt is a formidable task, perhaps even an impossible one, to uphold the invisible Good against the visible pleasures of life. However, should the Lord promote the well-being of those who have been called, it becomes feasible for them to choose exile from earthly attachments. As the Apostle reminds us, those whom He foreknew, He also predestined, called, justified, and glorified (Romans 8:28-31). The soul, through sensory experiences, becomes attached to worldly delights; it is drawn to the visuals that captivate the eyes, to sounds pleasing to the ears, and to tastes and touches that soothe the body. Thus, one becomes ensnared in these pleasures, burdened as if swaddled in a shell, unable to move freely. In such a state, the persecuted may succumb easily, yielding without resistance to possessors and becoming but a servant to cruelty. \\n\\nConversely, when the Word, as the Apostle expresses, is alive and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), it penetrates the faithful, liberating them from harmful patterns and the weights of sin. The believer casts aside worldly allurements, swiftly navigating the challenges ahead, guided by the Divine. Their gaze is not fixed on what they abandon but on what lies before them; they do not mourn the loss of earthly pleasures but delight in the heavenly gain, thus welcoming adversity as a catalyst for joyful anticipation. They embrace fire as a purging of the material and the sword as severing ties with the earthly. Every form of suffering becomes a remedy against the toxic allure of pleasure. Persecuted by enemies and leaning heavily upon God, they perceive tribulations as tools to extinguish sensuality, as sorrow renders pleasure unfelt.\\n\\nSin first entered through indulgence, and thus it must be expelled by opposing forces. Persecutors, creating hardships for the Lord’s confessors, may inadvertently contribute to the healing of souls, diminishing the disease of vanity through trials. Each martyr, from Paul bearing the cross to James who received the sword, from Stephen who faced stoning to Peter who endured a spear’s thrust—all the faithful have welcomed torment, enduring various sufferings, from beasts to fires, exposure to cold, and starvation. They embraced these severe trials with joy, ensuring that no trace of desire remained within their hearts after such trial had refined them. \\n\\nBlessed, then, are those cast out for My name's sake. One could infer this sentiment resonates similarly with health when it proclaims, “Blessed are those freed from sickness for My sake,” as release from affliction prepares the way to wholeness. Consider these words as life itself heralding goodwill: “Blessed are those persecuted by death for My sake,” or as the light proclaims, “Blessed are those who emerge from darkness for My sake.” Imagine the Lord, embodying truth, holiness, incorruption, goodness, and all that is deemed best, declaring blessed is anyone released from that which opposes Him—corruption, darkness, sin, unrighteousness, greed, and any inconsistency with virtue. For to step away from the bad means entering into the good.\\n\\nHe who commits sin, as the Lord states, is a slave to sin (John 8:34). Thus, the one who turns from their bondage to wickedness attains true freedom. The highest form of freedom is self-mastery, and the royal dignity encompasses such sovereignty. Therefore, if one estranged from sin emerges as sovereign, and self-governing royalty possesses ultimate authority, then those divested from evil justifiably receive blessings, as their exodus from sin affords them royal stature. Consequently, brethren, do not grieve for those who lose earthly ties; for the one cast out here solidifies their place in the royal courts of heaven. Two domains are designated for the rational soul—earth and heaven; earth shelters the corporeal while heaven welcomes the immaterial. Our existence must have a locality: if not cast from the earth, we remain tethered to it; and if separated from the earthly, we transcend to heaven. \\n\\nContemplate the honor inherent in what might seem unfortunate, for it is indeed the cause of abundant goodness. The Apostle recognizes that present troubles breed sorrow, yet ultimately yield the peaceful fruit of righteousness for those trained through hardship (Hebrews 12:11). Thus, sorrow colors the anticipation of future rewards. Let us embrace being cast out to merge with the divine flow; entering that current, let us not drift aimlessly but instead allow our journey to contribute toward the highest calling (Philippians 3:14). So, let us flow to comprehend what is hoped for—that glorious honor, that crown—all of which ultimately points to the Lord Himself. He serves as both the champion for those who strive and the reward for those who triumph. He dispenses the inheritance and embodies the good allotment; He enriches and is the very essence of riches. He promises treasure while also being the treasure. Thus, let us trade our earthly possessions, like bargain hunters, in our quest for the infinite good.\\n\\nShould we face persecution, let us not despair; rather, let us find joy in being driven from worldly affinities towards heavenly promises, as the Lord proclaims, blessed are those cast out for His sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven, through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. To Him be glory and dominion forever. Amen."},{"author-name":"Ephraem the Syrian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88b589fc3e99eb7bb1839_Ephraem%20the%20Syrian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"\\"Blessed are those who face exile for the sake of the truth,\\" as it is stated in another context: \\"they will be persecuted and betrayed\\" (cf. Lk. 21:12), and \\"all who desire to live righteously in Christ Jesus will encounter persecution\\" (cf. 2 Tim. 3:12). Consequently, the Apostles, when they were insulted, found joy, \\"for they were counted worthy to endure shame for His name\\" (cf. Acts 5:41), as the Lord instructed them: \\"Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great\\" (Matt. 5:12), and \\"on that day you will rejoice\\" (cf. Luke 6:23)."},{"author-name":"Anonymous Commentary (Opus Imperfectum)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":4,"exegesis-text":"He did not proclaim: “Blessed are those who endure persecution at the hands of the Gentiles,” lest anyone assume that only those who face persecution for refusing idol worship are truly blessed. Thus, anyone who suffers at the hands of heretics for clinging steadfastly to the truth is also blessed, for he perseveres for the sake of truth. While the pagans reject Christ, heretics reject the truth of Christ. Rejecting the truth of Christ is tantamount to rejecting Christ Himself, as Christ embodies the truth. Consequently, those heretics who persecute not for Christ but for the truth of Christ, and who may appear to be Christians at first glance, are in essence pagans. Moreover, it is not only heretics who may be guilty of this; even some rulers who outwardly present as Christians, yet find themselves ensnared by their transgressions and turn hostile towards you, will find you blessed, much like John. For John the Baptist wasn’t slain by pagans or heretics, but rather because he condemned Herod’s adultery. Likewise, all the prophets were not murdered by foreign kings, but by their own leaders, not due to a turn towards paganism, but because they exposed the sins of those rulers. If one suffers torment for God from one’s own, without any reward, it is worth noting that the prophets faced similar fates. Yet if it is indeed the case that the prophets are martyrs, it remains certain that anyone who endures for God, even from one's own people, will indeed receive a reward."},{"author-name":"Augustine of Hippo","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88950a5c988a4fc06c7ae_Augustine%20of%20Hippo.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"For the sake of truth, this distinction set apart the martyr from the thief. The thief also faces suffering due to his wrongdoing, yet he does not earn a reward, only appropriate retribution. It is not merely the suffering that qualifies one as a martyr, but the underlying purpose: he commits to this purpose first, then endures the suffering. When Christ was crucified, three crosses stood in one location: He was in the middle, flanked by two thieves. Observe the nature of the punishment; there is none like it. Yet, one of the thieves found eternal life alongside Him on the cross. The One in the center, the Divine Judge, condemns the arrogant while extending grace to the lowly. The cross transformed into the judgment seat of Christ. What does the One who judges and could be condemned do? He speaks to the repentant thief, declaring, \\"Truly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in paradise\\" (Luke 23:43). Despite his agony, what did he proclaim? \\"Remember me, Lord, when you come into Your Kingdom\\" (Luke 23:42). He acknowledged his sins, expressing his willingness to suffer until the Lord's return. For all who humble themselves shall be exalted. Christ swiftly issued His verdict, offering forgiveness."},{"author-name":"Chromatius of Aquileia","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a3df6d7a747a33b4f4a_Chromatius%20of%20Aquileia.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"The Lord has rightly emphasized the profound truth that we should yearn for, a longing that compels us to disregard the world’s afflictions, physical pain, and even death. This teaching designates the martyrs as those who, for the sake of God’s truth and the name of Christ, withstand worldly persecutions, promising them the glorious hope of inheriting the kingdom of heaven. The apostles and all the righteous were among the first to experience this joy, having encountered various trials for the truth of the law and, in return for their steadfast faith, attained the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who were cast out for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” There is no question, dear friends, that acts of virtue often attract envy. When you strive to uphold righteousness, shun arrogance, and call the unfaithful to the peace of the Lord, once you begin to stand apart from worldly and sinful individuals, persecution will inevitably follow; animosity and jealousy will emerge against you. Thus, Christ elevates His listeners to the highest calling, leading them not only to endure trials but also to find joy in death alongside Him."},{"author-name":"Symeon the New Theologian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c897eec143c131d21207b3_Symeon%20the%20New%20Theologian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":10,"exegesis-text":"Ultimately, upon hearing, 'Blessed are those who are cast out for the sake of righteousness,' one must reflect inwardly to determine if they have endured any trials for God's commandments. As the Apostle states, all who strive to live a faithful life in Christ Jesus will face persecution (2 Tim. 3:12). How can we guard our hearts and examine our spiritual state, and how can we align our actions with the teachings of Christ the Lord?"},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"It's not just martyrs who face persecution; many individuals are also targeted for assisting those who have been wronged and for embodying every virtue, as every virtue reflects truth. While thieves and murderers may suffer persecution, they do not receive blessings for their actions."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The term kingdom of heaven is interpreted in various ways: some see it as eternal life in heaven, others view it as a state akin to that of the angels, while some understand it as a representation of divine contemplation, bestowed according to each person's righteousness. Still, others associate it with the gracious sharing of benefits that are inherently God's. The third and fourth interpretations are also referred to as the kingdom of God. This clarification is made to avoid the mistaken belief that the world is universally a place of beauty. Here, truth encompasses all forms of virtue. If a reward of the Kingdom of Heaven is appointed for this achievement, do not begrudge them as if they are claiming another's reward. Although these rewards may appear distinct due to differing titles, they all refer to the Kingdom of Heaven. Those who receive such honors also partake in the kingdom of heaven; hence, they are all regarded as blessed. It is not only the martyrs who endure exile; many others do so as well, whether for aiding the oppressed or through any manifestation of virtue, since truth embodies all forms of virtue. However, while evildoers and murderers may face exile, they are not deemed blessed."},{"author-name":"Peter of Kiev","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ddde144a394c69d270_Peter%20of%20Kiev.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":17,"exegesis-text":"What is the eighth beatitude? The answer is: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). What is the significance of this beatitude? This beatitude applies to those who declare the truth, exposing the sins and wrongdoings of the wicked; as a result, they face severe persecution and animosity, sometimes even to the point of losing their lives, much like John the Baptist who was wronged by Herod and others. It pertains to all teachers within the Church, ministers of the Gospel, and confessors, who often endure hostility and ingratitude from their followers in response to their efforts to teach and guide."},{"author-name":"Philaret of Moscow (Drosdow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ffb7a2ebaf99e46539_Philaret%20of%20Moscow%20(Drosdow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"WHAT IS GOD'S EIGHTH COMMANDMENT FOR ACHIEVING FELICITY? Those who seek happiness must be prepared to face trials for the sake of truth without compromising it. WHAT VIRTUES ARE ESSENTIAL FOR WITHSTANDING PERSECUTION DUE TO TRUTH? Honesty, persistence in righteousness, stability in moral character, as well as bravery and endurance in upholding truth and moral principles amid turmoil or threats. WHAT DOES THE LORD GIVE TO THOSE WHO SUFFER FOR THE SAKE OF TRUTH? Just as the impoverished in spirit are promised the kingdom of heaven as a counterbalance to their feelings of deficiency, the Lord assures those who endure persecution for truth a place in the kingdom of heaven as compensation for what they lose through their trials."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Expelled for the sake of truth signifies being cut off from communion, facing persecution, or enduring oppression. This truth encompasses not only virtue, kindness, or piety but is often identified with the complete righteousness of the soul. A Christian ought not to pursue persecution intentionally; however, they are called to proclaim and practice the truth. Should they face persecution as a result, they must bear it steadfastly, holding onto the hope of the promised joy. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."},{"author-name":"Kochomski S.W.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Blessed are those who endure exile for the truth, face scorn and defamation for the sake of Christ's name, for they shall receive abundant reward in heaven. This embodies the essence of a genuine child of the kingdom of God. The qualities of this essence are intricately linked; one quality complements the others, as seen in spiritual poverty linked with mourning for God, or a deep yearning for righteousness. Additionally, some qualities are inherently tied to others; for instance, meekness naturally connects with purity of heart, mercy, and the pursuit of peace among neighbors. Ultimately, these virtues culminate in the boldness to suffer for the truth and in the name of Christ. Likewise, the promised rewards are interconnected; nearly all of them depend on one another. Therefore, in His message to the people, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 6:20-23), the Lord articulates only four beatitudes. Though these are expressed with less clarity, their profound significance reflects the same completeness as the nine beatitudes detailed in St. Matthew, encapsulating the full character of a true child of the kingdom of Christ. Specifically addressing the Apostles and His closest followers, Jesus Christ (from Matthew 5:13) elaborates on their fundamental role (continuing from Matthew 5:13) to embody the overarching characteristics of the members of God's kingdom as described earlier."}]}
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