Scripture to Read: John 15:19–20
Jesus gave the disciples further explanation for the hatred the world would have for them, and this is the reason the world hates all Christians. Jesus said in John 15:19–20, “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.” If we chose to follow the world over Christ, then the world would love, support, applaud, and treat us as one of its own. Consider how the world system in the USA applauds sins such as homosexuality, unmarried couples living together, transgenderism, getting drunk to have fun, rebelling against law enforcement personnel, and so many others. The fact that Christ chose us long before we were born shows us how everlasting His love is for us. He chose to die for this world, but so many refuse to follow Him and instead choose to follow the world. Jesus also said that because they persecute Him, the world will persecute His followers. God tells us in 1 Peter 4:13–14, "…to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. 14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed.…" Persecution should never surprise us.
Challenge & Application
• What must we do daily to guard against the world’s way of thinking while still seeking to reach the lost in this world?
• How have you been persecuted for your walk with Christ, and how do you deal with the persecution?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!