If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
John 15:19

You can talk all you want about any religion or philosophy, no matter how hard-brained its ideas, and you’ll get a respectful hearing. But try to talk about what the Bible says and suddenly you’re accused of “ramming your narrow minded views down their throats.” And don’t even mention the name of Jesus! That really gets people riled up.

The world in rebellion against God hates to be reminded that there is a Judge to whom we will have to give an account one day, whether we believe it or not. The idea that God graciously offers forgiveness to me for Jesus’ sake, the very idea that I need forgiveness, brings that deep-seated rebellion to the surface.

We’re always surprised at the level of rejection that we encounter from people who don’t love God. Just wanting to do the right thing in God’s eyes opens us up to amazing antagonism and opposition. Refusing to use the words they want us to say or accept the ideas that they demand we affirm will get us into trouble. The world wants to hear its own echo chamber, and nothing else. 

…If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of My name, because they do not know Him who sent Me.
John 15:20-21

Lord, the world that hates You hates me, too; I feel it some days more than others. But there are so many, whose hearts You have prepared, who long to hear Your offer of forgiveness. Thank You that there was someone here to bring that offer to me when I needed to hear it! Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles