What other scriptures emphasize the world's hatred towards Jesus and His followers? Setting the Scene: John 15:18–20 “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.” (John 15:18–19) • Jesus states the principle plainly and historically: hatred toward believers begins with hatred toward Him. • He ties that hostility to election—His choice sets us apart, and the world resents that distinction. • Verse 20 reminds us the servant is not greater than the Master; rejection of Christ will naturally spill over onto His people. Old Testament Foreshadows of Hostility • Psalm 2:1–3 — “The kings of the earth take their stand… against the LORD and against His Anointed.” Even before the Incarnation, rebellion against God’s Messiah is foretold. • Isaiah 53:3 — “He was despised and rejected by men.” The Suffering Servant’s experience of contempt sets the template for those united to Him. • Amos 5:10 — “They hate him who reproves in the gate,” showing hostility toward any voice that speaks God’s truth. Jesus’ Broader Teaching on Persecution • Matthew 5:10–12 — “Blessed are those who are persecuted… Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” Hatred is turned on its head—persecution signals genuine kingdom citizenship. • Luke 6:22–23 — “Blessed are you when people hate you… on account of the Son of Man.” The same promise, with an emphasis on identification with Christ. • John 7:7 — “The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me, because I testify that its works are evil.” The hatred springs from moral exposure. • John 17:14 — “I have given them Your word, and the world has hated them.” Jesus’ high-priestly prayer links possession of the Word to worldly opposition. Early Church Experience • Acts 5:40–41 — After flogging, the apostles “left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.” • Acts 14:22 — “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Paul teaches converts that hardship is the normal path. • 2 Corinthians 4:8–11 — Afflicted, persecuted, yet never abandoned—Christ’s life revealed through believers’ sufferings. Apostolic Instructions and Warnings • 2 Timothy 3:12 — “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” The Spirit, through Paul, states it as a certainty. • 1 John 3:13 — “Do not be surprised, brothers, if the world hates you.” John echoes his Gospel theme decades later. • 1 Peter 4:12–14 — “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial… If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed.” • Philippians 1:29 — “It has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” Faith and suffering are twin gifts. • Hebrews 11:36–38 — Saints enduring mockings, chains, and death; “the world was not worthy of them.” Future Outlook: Global Opposition and Final Triumph • Revelation 13:7 — The beast “was permitted to make war with the saints and to conquer them,” showing end-time escalation of hatred. • Revelation 17:14 — “These will make war with the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph,” assuring ultimate victory. • Revelation 12:11 — “Overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.” Takeaway Threads for Today • Hatred toward Jesus and His people is neither accidental nor new; it flows from fallen humanity’s rebellion against God. • Scripture treats persecution as both inevitable and purposeful, refining faith and testifying to Christ’s worth. • From Genesis-to-Revelation the pattern is consistent: hostility now, vindication later. Holding fast to these verses anchors us in that unchanging reality. |
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