The modern Christian has made a grave assumption that once they accept Christ as Savior their life would be greatly improved. Of course, spiritually speaking this is true. However, Jesus reminded his disciples that they were specifically chosen and ordained to be part of his inner group. Therefore, it is his expectation that they bring forth fruit or good results of their loyalty.
Then he warns them. Logically speaking, since the world hates you, remember that it hated him first. He went further to say that because they persecuted him, they will also persecute the believer. He referred to Psalm 35 that says, “They hated me without a cause.” Becoming a Christian is in no way meant to live a life without problems. In fact, many and new problems can arise after one accepts Jesus as Savior.
We can become persecuted by family and friends; exiled from what once was an enjoyable relationship. If we hold up the name of Christ before the world, the world will not automatically receive our testimony. Instead, the world has a reputation of rejecting and persecuting those who stand for God.
The good news is that our problems are the result of our alignment with the Heavenly Father. A distinct line is no longer blurred between believing and unbelieving. Jesus refers to those who opposed him as children of the devil. That means anyone who gives you a problem because of your faith could be influenced by Satan. Recognize the true source from where your opposition comes. Another good news is it we have the Holy Spirit to comfort us. Rely on him and trust him.
This world of hostility is not our home. The source of hostility is not our friend. The experience of hostility is a natural consequence. To live in a realm of hostility is a privilege because we are following the same path that Jesus walked. In the day of the early Christians, they rejoiced at persecution physically and even unto death because theirs was an opportunity to mirror Jesus in his life and death for us.
The hardships that you endure are a testimony to those who behold your experiences. You can be an encouragement to the weaker believers as they look up to you trusting God no matter what. We have difficult times because the circumstances of our lives are like that of being thrown in the lion’s den. We must keep our eyes focused properly on Christ and not on the difficulties brought on to us from the world. I am reminded of Peter who was about to be crucified. He requested that he be crucified upside down because he was unworthy to be crucified in the same manner as his Lord.
The half-brother of Jesus wrote in the Bible, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations.” (James 1:2) let us refocus ourselves on the privilege that we have in serving God before a cruel and wicked world.
Christian Writer 