Why should believers not be surprised by the world's hatred, per 1 John 3:13? Key Verse 1 John 3:13 — “So do not be surprised, brothers, if the world hates you.” The Expectation of Hostility • Scripture treats opposition as normal, not exceptional. • 1 Peter 4:12 — “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you.” • 2 Timothy 3:12 — “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • Recognizing this pattern shields the heart from shock and discouragement. Rooted in Spiritual Realities • Family identity shift: 1 John 3:1 — “The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.” • Two kingdoms in conflict: – 1 John 5:19 — “The whole world lies in the power of the evil one.” – Colossians 1:13 — “He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son.” • Friendship with the world is impossible without compromising loyalty to Christ (James 4:4). The Cain and Abel Pattern • 1 John 3:12 points to Cain: “Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother.” • Righteousness exposes unrighteousness, stirring resentment. • Genesis 4 shows anger escalating when godliness receives God’s approval. Following the Footsteps of Christ • John 15:18-20 — “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first… A servant is not greater than his master.” • Isaiah 53 portrays Messiah as “despised and rejected.” Our union with Him brings shared treatment. • Christ’s victory assures ultimate vindication: John 16:33 — “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” Purpose in Persecution • Purifies faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). • Provides a platform for witness (Philippians 1:12-13). • Produces eternal reward (Matthew 5:11-12). Living with Confidence and Hope • 1 John 4:4 — “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” • Romans 8:18 — “Our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.” • Galatians 6:14 — “The world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” Practical Takeaways • Expect hostility; refuse bitterness. • Anchor identity in God’s affirming love, not in the world’s approval. • Stay committed to holiness—light must keep shining. • Pray for those who oppose; they need the gospel that offends them. • Encourage one another; shared trials forge deeper fellowship. |
    |