Matthew 5:11

Reviling and speaking evil of persons falsely, because of their profession of Christ, and because they dare not sin against God, is a species of persecution, Genesis 21:9 Galatians 4:29, though the lowest degree of it. It hath been the constant lot of God's servants. David said, Psalms 35:11, that false witnesses did rise up, and laid to his charge things that he knew not. Thus John and Christ were served, Matthew 11:18,19 Lu 7:33,34; nor is it to be wondered that those whose consciences are so seared that they cannot feel the guilt of persecuting others for righteousness sake, should not feel the guilt of lying and false swearing. But, saith our Saviour, you are blessed when these things happen unto you, 1 Peter 4:13.