When Christians Encounter Opposition

“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as it loves its own. But I have chosen you out of the world, so you don’t belong to it. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: A servant is not greater than his master. If people did wrong to me, they will do wrong to you, too. And if they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours, too.” – John 15:19-20

Christians will likely encounter opposition while living in the world. If someone is not a believer that is chosen by God, then they will be treated differently. Christians will face opposition from unbelievers. Christians will be called haters; some might be persecuted for their faith and be considered outcasts, especially living in a world filled with sinful people. Being a Christian will not be easy.

John 15:19-20 reminds us that the world will hate us. If unbelievers first hated Jesus, then they will also hate followers of His. He even warns us about it, “If people did wrong to me, they will do wrong to you, too.” People of the world love those who live as they do. Jesus warns us so we will not be surprised or disheartened when people treat us so harshly. It does not seem fair but that is the way it is since our fight is not really against each other but as Ephesians 6:12-13 states:

“Our fight is not against people on earth but against the rulers and authorities and the powers of this world’s darkness, against the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly world. That is why you need to put on God’s full armor. Then on the day of evil you will be able to stand strong. And when you have finished the whole fight, you will still be standing.”

Christians will encounter opposition, but they can turn all of their trials into joy since they can view them as blessings since they are going through it for their Lord, Jesus Christ!

Prayer of the day:

Dear heavenly Father,

We will encounter opposition being Your people. When we do, please provide us with the strength to go through it since it will not be easy. No one wants to feel like an outcast because it hurts. It will be worth it since we will be standing with our Lord Jesus Christ in a world that is against Him and us. We want to be Your people since it is a free gift. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!