John 15:25
John 15:25
But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
In this verse, Jesus is preparing His disciples for the opposition and persecution they will face as His followers. Jesus explains that the hatred of the world towards Him and His disciples is without cause, as it is rooted in their rejection of both Him and His Father. The disciples are to understand that they will face persecution not because of anything they have done but because of their association with Jesus. During His time on earth, Jesus lived a perfect, sinless life that stood in stark contrast to those who rejected and hated Him. His purity exposed their evil, and His grace revealed the hardness of their hearts and rebellion against God. However, this was all foreknown by the Lord, who turned Israel's rejection of Christ into an opportunity for us to become sons of God through faith in Jesus. As believers, we have the vital responsibility of carrying on the ministry of reconciliation that was entrusted to the apostles. Even though the world will always hate and persecute us, both Jewish and Gentile believers, we must be willing to boldly proclaim the Word, speak the truth in love, and defend the hope we have in Christ.
Exodus 1:12
But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel.
Luke 6:22
Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you.
1 Peter 3:14
But even if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.
Acts 5:41
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.