Jesus is Essential
John 15:18–19: “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
Throughout the Gospel of John, it is evident that the religious establishment not only opposed Jesus, but even sought to kill Him. As He continued His ministry, there was a tide of resentment, then hatred, and then open opposition against Him.
So, the disciples should not have been surprised when Jesus brought up the subject of persecution, for they had heard Him warn them and they had seen Him face men’s hatred during His ministry. Until the Lord returns, or until we die, we must live in this hostile world and face continued opposition. How can we do it? What is the secret of victory? It is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit of God in our lives. 1
Walking with Jesus
Are you seeking the friendship of the world instead of pursuing the friendship that Jesus has offered you? What is your aim in life? To be popular with many at any cost, or to be faithful to One, regardless of the cost? How would an unbelieving friend know that your friendship with Jesus is the most important relationship in the world?
We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one. 1 John 5:19
My aim is not to be loved by the world, but to love the world with the love of God.
Praying
Lord, thank You for explaining to me why the world resents my love for You.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
