Written by Reflection on John 15:18–21
**Scripture (KJV):**
“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me.” — *John 15:18–21 (KJV)*
**Reflection:**
In this passage, Jesus prepares His disciples for the inevitable cost of discipleship. To be chosen by Christ is to be called out of the world—and that separation will bring resistance, rejection, and persecution. The world loves its own, but those who walk in light will always be misunderstood by those who remain in darkness.
We are not called to blend in but to stand out as living testimonies of God’s transforming grace. The more we grow in Christ, the less we will fit into the patterns of the world. This divine distinction is not a punishment—it is a mark of belonging. Jesus Himself endured hatred and rejection, and as His followers, we share in that same calling to endure with love, humility, and faith.
True peace comes not from the approval of the world but from the presence of Christ. His peace anchors us even when everything else shakes. It is a supernatural peace that surpasses understanding and keeps our hearts steady through every storm.
**Lessons Learned:**
1. **Chosen but Not of the World:** Our identity in Christ separates us from worldly systems and desires. This distinction will often bring opposition.
2. **Persecution Is Proof of Belonging:** If the world hated Jesus, we should not be surprised when it resists us. Enduring hardship for His name confirms our allegiance to Him.
3. **Peace Beyond Circumstance:** The peace of God is not dependent on external stability. Even when the world is shaken, those anchored in Christ remain firm.
4. **The Power of the Word:** Faith grows by hearing and meditating on God’s Word. The more we know Him, the stronger we stand in times of trial.
5. **Relationship Over Religion:** A deep relationship with Jesus protects us from worldly idols and keeps our hearts fixed on eternity.
6. **Self-Examination:** If the world embraces us too easily, we must examine our hearts to see if compromise has taken root.
7. **A Call to Evangelism:** The world’s ignorance of God fuels its rebellion. Our mission is to shine the light of truth, teaching others the saving knowledge of Christ.
8. **Boldness Through the Spirit:** God equips His people with courage to stand unashamed of the Gospel. The harvest is ready, and He calls us to labor with love and truth.
As followers of Christ, we are not here to be admired by the world but to reveal the heart of Jesus to it. To be hated for His sake is not loss—it is honor. May we carry His light boldly into the darkness and show others the way home to His eternal love.
If you do not know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we invite you to begin your journey today. Visit our **Road to Salvation** series—one hour that can change your life and destiny forever. God bless you.
