How does John 17:14 define the believer's relationship with the world today? The Context of Jesus’ Words John 17 records Jesus praying for His disciples on the night before the cross. In verse 14 He says: “I have given them Your word, and the world has hated them; for they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.” What the Verse States Directly • Jesus has entrusted His followers with God’s word • Because of that word, “the world” responds with hatred • The disciples possess a new identity: “not of the world” • Their pattern is Jesus Himself—He too is “not of the world” Defining “the World” • Humanity organized in rebellion against God (1 John 2:15-17) • Systems, values, and priorities that dismiss or oppose Christ (James 4:4) • A realm driven by self-exaltation rather than submission to God Believers: In but Not Of John 17:14 sets up two simultaneous realities: 1. Location: still physically present on earth (John 17:15) 2. Origin and allegiance: transferred to heaven (Philippians 3:20) Practical implications: • We engage culture yet refuse its godless mold (Romans 12:2) • We enjoy creation’s gifts yet reject its idols (1 Corinthians 7:29-31) • We serve society’s good while pointing beyond it to Christ’s kingdom (Matthew 5:14-16) Why the World Hates • God’s word exposes darkness (John 3:19-20) • Loyalty to Jesus confronts the world’s demand for conformity (John 15:18-19) • The believer’s very existence testifies there is a higher King (Acts 17:7) Staying Faithful Amid Hostility • Hold fast to the word entrusted to us (2 Timothy 1:13-14) • Expect opposition without surprise or bitterness (1 Peter 4:12-14) • Abide in Christ’s love, the source of courage and joy (John 15:9-11) Encouraging Snapshot • Jesus prays for His own, guaranteeing preservation (John 17:11) • Our separation is not isolation but consecration—set apart for God’s mission (John 17:18) • Ultimate victory is certain: “Take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Believers today, like the first disciples, live as resident aliens—physically among the world yet spiritually distinct, safeguarded by Christ, and sent to shine the light of His truth. |
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