L'esprit charnel est inimitié contre Dieu (Romans 8:7), et plus ses enfants sont conformes à son image, plus ils attireront sur eux la méchanceté de ses ennemis. Être "persécuté à cause de la justice" (Mt. 5:10) signifie être combattu à cause d'une vie juste. Ceux qui accomplissent leur devoir de chrétien condamnent ceux qui vivent pour se faire plaisir, et suscitent donc leur haine. Cette persécution prend diverses formes, de l'agacement et de la raillerie à l'opposition et au tourment.
A.W. Pink, The Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer, Baker, 1979, p. 56-67.
The carnal mind is at enmity against God (Romans 8:7), and the more His children are conformed to His image the more they will bring down upon themselves the spite of His foes. Being “persecuted for righteousness sake” (Mt. 5:10) means being opposed because of right living. Those who perform their Christian duty condemn those who live to please self, and therefore evoke their hatred. This persecution assumes various forms, from annoying and taunting to opposing and tormenting.
A.W. Pink, The Beatitudes and the Lord’s Prayer, Baker, 1979, p. 56-67.