If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.
John 15:19 NIV
On the night before his betrayal and crucifixion, Jesus spent time teaching his disciples, preparing them for life without his physical presence. And one of the things he prepared them for was the hostility they could expect from the world.
For the New Testament writers, “the world” typically did not refer to the earth we live on. It was, instead, the kingdom of darkness, ruled by Satan, and standing in opposition to the kingdom of God. It does not always appear to be evil. Indeed, there is good within the world. But “the world” is separated from the love of God and generally antagonist toward him.
Not a Part of This World
Jesus told his disciples that he had chosen them out of the world, and they no longer belonged to it. They had become a part of his kingdom instead. And even though they continued to be in the world, they were no longer a part of it.
And because of that, they could expect the world to hate them. They were different. And the people of the world generally do not react positively to those who are different–especially to those whose lives point out their own failings.
What Jesus had to say to his disciples in the upper room is just as true for those who follow him now. He has chosen us out of the world, and though he has left us here for a while, we no longer belong to the world. God has called us to be different, living as citizens of his kingdom.
And when we are faithful to that call, we can expect hostility from the world around us. But rather than be discouraged by it, we should, as foreigners and aliens in this world (1 Pet. 1:17), seek to live holy and godly lives that reflect the love of God in a lost and dying world (1 Pet. 2:12).
Thank you for pointing out that those of the world will hate me because Jesus living through my life “point(s) out their own failings”. This is another thing I never thought of. I can be offensive and should never blame others for my problems, but if I am living in the Spirit, and doing no evil, Jesus Spirit will bring conviction.
It is unfortunate that so many believers are mean spirited and caustic. They bring disrepute on the name of Christ. But if you are living a life of love and walking with the Lord, and people take offense at you, then you are blessed. And, hopefully if you continue to be loving toward those around you, it will positively impact them.