How does Acts 26:14 connect with Jesus' teachings on persecution in John 15:20? Setting the Scene Acts 26 finds Paul rehearsing his Damascus-road encounter before King Agrippa. The heart of that testimony appears in Acts 26:14: “We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Hebrew, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’” Jesus Takes Persecution Personally • The risen Lord addresses Saul directly—“why do you persecute Me?” • By persecuting believers, Saul was striking at Christ Himself. • This reveals the mystical union of Christ and His church (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:26; Ephesians 5:30). Jesus’ Words about Persecution John 15:20 records Jesus’ prior teaching: “Remember the word that I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.” Key points in that upper-room promise: • Persecution of disciples is a continuation of the world’s hostility toward Jesus. • Servants share their Master’s treatment—opposition is normal for Christ-followers. • Jesus forewarned this so His followers would not be shaken (cf. John 16:1-4). Connecting the Dots Acts 26:14 serves as living proof of John 15:20. 1. Identity Shared – John 15:20: Followers are united with their Master. – Acts 26:14: Jesus speaks as the One being persecuted when His people suffer. 2. Expectation Confirmed – John 15:20: Persecution is inevitable for disciples. – Acts 26:14: Saul’s violence validates Jesus’ forecast within a few short years. 3. Encouragement Supplied – John 15:20: Opposition affirms believers belong to Christ. – Acts 26:14: The Lord’s personal intervention shows He stands with His suffering people (cf. Daniel 3:24-25; Acts 18:9-10). Additional Scriptural Echoes • Matthew 10:22—“You will be hated by everyone on account of My name.” • 2 Timothy 3:12—“Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • Philippians 1:29—“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” Walking It Out Today • Recognize that mistreatment for Christ’s sake is ultimately directed at Him, not merely at us. • Draw courage from the Savior’s promise to be present with His persecuted church (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5-6). • Persevere, knowing opposition verifies our union with the risen Lord and fulfils His unchanging Word. |
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