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Humble Hero
“Blessed are the peacemakers.” The world is hostile to the law of
God; sinners are hostile to their Maker. As a result, they are hostile
to one another. Human plans will fail to produce peace because they
do not reach the heart. The only power that can create true peace is
the grace of Christ. When this grace is implanted in the heart, it will
banish the evil passions that cause conflicts and divisions.
The Multitudes Were Amazed
The people had come to think that happiness consisted in possess-
ing the things of this world and that fame and honor were something
to covet. It was very pleasing to be called “Rabbi” and to be praised
as wise and religious. But Jesus declared that earthly honor was all
that such persons would ever receive. A convincing power accom-
panied His words. Many were convinced that the Spirit of God was
working through this remarkable Teacher.
After explaining how to obtain true happiness, Jesus pointed out
His disciples’ duty. He knew that they would often be insulted and
their testimony be rejected. The humble men who listened to His
words would experience slander, torture, imprisonment, and death,
and He continued:
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they
revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely
for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your
reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were
before you.”
The world loves sin and hates righteousness, and this is what
caused its hostility to Jesus. The light of Christ sweeps away the
darkness that covers their sins, revealing the need for reform. Those
who yield to the Holy Spirit begin war with themselves; those who
cling to sin war against the truth and its representatives.
Because of this, people accuse Christ’s followers of being trou-
blers of the people. But it is fellowship with God that brings them
the world’s hatred. They are walking the path that the noblest of
earth have walked. Each fiery trial is God’s agent to refine them.
Each conflict will add to the joy of their final triumph. When they
keep this in mind, they will cheerfully accept the testing of their
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