God's Gospel Truths
John 15:18-21
The World Hates the Disciples
18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’[b] If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.
Footnotes:
[b] John 15:20 John 13:16
Pondering Point
Before you gravitate to the unsettling comment about followers of Jesus being persecuted, focus on the earlier word chosen. You are chosen and nothing can separate you from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. Celebrate this truth. Then walk as Jesus walked, live as Jesus lived, and love as Jesus loved. Experience life the way Jesus experienced life, knowing that God will be with you every step of the way. Father God upheld Jesus and He will uphold you as well.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for choosing me out of the world. When I face persecution in big or small ways, remind me that being persecuted is even honorable, putting me in the same mistreated category as You. And remind me that Father will take care of me just as he took care of You. Amen.