Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 5:10

"Blessed are they that have been persecuted for righteousness` sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." — Matthew 5:10 (ASV)

This is the unique blessing of the elect of God, and it ranks high in the list of honor. The only homage that wickedness can pay to righteousness is to persecute it. Those who in the first blessing were poor in spirit are here despised as well as poverty-stricken, and in this they receive a new royal charter, which for the second time guarantees them the kingdom of heaven.

Indeed, they have the kingdom now. It is theirs in present possession. Not because of any personal fault, but simply because of their godly character, the Lord's Daniels are hated, but they are blessed by what looks like a curse. Ishmael mocks Isaac, but nevertheless, Isaac has the inheritance and Ishmael is cast out. It is a gift from God to be allowed to suffer for His name. Therefore, may we be helped to rejoice in Christ's cross when we are honored by being reviled for His name's sake.

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

They have it now, they are participating in it already; for, as Christ was persecuted, and he is again persecuted in them, as they are partakers of his sufferings, so are they sharers in his kingdom.