Persecution is a result of following Christ.
Jesus' disciples will be persecuted for their association with him, just as the prophets were persecuted for speaking the truth. However, Persecution is not a reason to despair instead of feeling discouraged, believers should rejoice and be glad because their reward in heaven will be great. Persecution is a result of living a righteous life. Believers are righteous in God's eyes, and their confession of faith and moral lives will offend the world. Jesus faced persecution and was hated by the world, and so will all those who belong to Christ. Persecution is a result of being a follower of Christ, but it's not the end. The reward for faithfulness is greater than any price that might be paid.