V.20-26 The Lord Jesus tells His followers that they should not expect to be popular, but to expect suffering. For if the people rejected the Lord, they would also reject His followers. Notice the word “blessed” is mentioned three times, and then “rejoice” and “joy” and “reward.” But the word “woe” is mentioned four times. Then “hunger,” “mourn” and “weep.”
V.23-28 These verses are not telling a person how to get saved — that is a gift from God, through the work of Christ. But we believers should remember we have the power to act as the Lord Jesus would act, in every circumstance (John 1:1212But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (John 1:12)). If we read these verses slowly, we shall see that He fulfilled them, and so should we to please Him. We believers are blessed. These verses tell us to love, do good to, and pray for those that reject the truth.
V.39-42 What a lesson for all believers to learn. How critical of others we often are!
V.43-49 We live today in a world where everything is becoming blurred, nothing is definite, people aren’t sure about anything, anything goes, there are few “absolutes.” But these seven verses tell us that trees, bushes and people produce what they are. What is in our heart will come out in our conversation and our life.