Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:10-12
“The blessedness of persecution for righteousness’ sake is best exemplified by the apostles and with them all those who for the sake of justice are persecuted. Let us together follow their example.
Chromatius (c. 400) in Tractate on Matthew 17.7.