Tag: John 15:18-24
The world hates you!
Scripture reading for November 3rd: John 15, Psalm 70, Proverbs 3
John 15: 18-24 “”If the world hates you, know that it has hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the Word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My Word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of My Name, because they do not know Him Who sent Me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. Whoever hates Me hates My Father also.””
Being a follower of Jesus, our Master, is not a bed of roses. Jesus has called His followers out of the world system of greed and self-promotion into the kingdom of heaven. Greatness in His kingdom is based on serving and a servant is not above his Master. Jesus explained that those still in the world hated and persecuted Him and they would also hate and persecute all followers. Those called out of the world had listened and obeyed Jesus’ Word and that group would also hear and obey the words of the disciples. When the world hates Jesus or us, His followers, it is a hatred of the Father and a failure to learn about the Father through Jesus’ Word. When the Word is preached, all hearers become accountable. When people reject and hate Jesus and His Word, the Word will, ultimately be their judge.
Psalm 70:4-5 “May all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You! May those who love Your Salvation say evermore, “God is great!” But I am poor and needy; hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay!”
Prayer: Father God, it is a great privilege to know You through Jesus Christ and His Word and works. Thank You for revealing salvation to me and reminding me that the world will hate me because You have called me out of the world system. Thank You for the indwelling Holy Spirit Who daily helps me to turn away from all evil and show Your love to those still in this world! I rejoice in Your amazing salvation!
Proverbs 3:7-8 “Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.”