Sermon Title: The Change Agent's Badge: A Clear View of Righteous Conflict Main Text: Matthew 5:10

Summary This sermon message re-frames persecution not as a failure, but as the inevitable "badge" of a true Christian "change agent." Based on Matthew 5:10, it argues that when we act as "thermostats" for God's righteousness, we will naturally create friction with the world. Our primary calling is not to avoid this conflict, but to manage it with the righteousness, love, and humility of Christ. This grace-filled response is what separates a Christian from a worldly activist; it becomes our most powerful witness (a "light") to a watching world. We are empowered to respond this way because, as "ambassadors," our identity and reward are already secure in the Kingdom of Heaven, freeing us from the need to "win" worldly battles.