B I B L E L E S S O N

“If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own. Because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world—therefore the world hates you.”

— John 15:19

Jesus told His true disciples — ones He had chosen out of the world — some sobering facts that will help all His faithful followers around the world.

First, remember that Jesus still chooses His followers out of the world to become His loving friends and devoted disciples.

Second, remember that Jesus' true disciples do not belong to the world — they belong to Jesus — therefore, the world hates them.

Third, to understand the world in which they live, the followers of Jesus must remember that the world still hates and persecutes Jesus' followers. Why the hatred? Jesus said that those who persecute His followers do not know the Father who sent Him into the world. Even worse, Jesus said they hate the Father and Him. Those of this world saw, heard and without cause crucified Jesus because they hated the Father, Jesus and His disciples. If we understand these facts, then we will know some of the reasons those of this world believe and act as they do.

Fourth, those who think, speak and act as Jesus and His first disciples acted should expect the same reaction of hatred from the world. They will be hated by the world because the chosen followers of Jesus do not belong to this world.

Fifth, remember if you follow Jesus, it is because Jesus chose you and sent the Spirit of Truth to live within you, so you could be a good witness for the Him whenever you tell others about Him — some will listen, believe, and love Him.