Luke 6:23 “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven, For in like manner their fathers did to the prophets.”
This is quite a significant parallel to draw. The prophets were the messengers of Jehovah God to the Jewish people. The Jewish leaders of Jesus’ day claimed to be faithful to all that the prophets had spoken. The antagonism of these leaders put Jesus and His followers in a position of opposition to them. The claim here then is that Jesus and His doctrine were consistent with the Old Testament prophets, and that His followers could legitimately identify with them.
Beyond this, notice the reaction Jesus is telling His followers to have when they are persecuted. Though persecution is not to be sought after, it is not to be grievous either. It is not only a cause for joy, but is also the indication of eternal reward.
This is quite a message in that it sets Christians upon a different track for the future. This world seeks a different direction entirely. But, it is not Christians who are diverting from the choice that is most consistent with reality, it is this present evil world.
Heavenly Father, thank You for saving us from this present evil world. Though Your created world is beautiful (though cursed because of sin), the world system of humanity is corrupted. We are to be strangers and pilgrims in relation to it, even though we are patriotic citizens of Your great kingdom. Thank You for allowing us to be a part of it! In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.