The world can’t hate you, but it does hate me because I accuse it of doing evil. John 7:7 NLT
I’ve been thinking a lot about persecution of Christians recently. On paper it doesn’t make sense if a person is living the values of Jesus’ teaching. We are commanded to love God and love other people. This would include being kind, forgiving others, and sharing your resources and many more actions of good virtue.
So why do people dislike Christians so much?
Every Christian is a declaration that all people are sinful and in need of a savior. To look or listen to a Christian is a reminder that all will have to give an account for behavior and thoughts which are unholy and the opposite of God’s character.
None of us likes to be shown our selfishness, pride, arrogance, deceit, greed, or the wicked things in our heart. Jesus came as a light but people reject the light. They love the darkness in which they live rather than having their deeds exposed.. To come to the light of Jesus will reveal the paths and actions in which you have gone on your own way.
The world hated Jesus because He reminded them of their sin. They loved His miracles, His message of love, His good news of peace with God, and even His teaching. BUT when He exposed their hypocrisy and other sins, they grew angry with Him.
They were constantly looking for a way to “justify” themselves. This was primarily done through comparing themselves as better than others. “I’m glad I don’t do that anymore like they did it.” 🙂
How does God show us that we need to change (reveal the darkness of our lives)?
Through HIs word and His Spirit.
God’s word is sharper than a double edge sword…judging the thoughts and intent of our heart. We listen and read God’s word in order to keep clean and let God expose our sinfulness. Notice those who have rejected God or start walking away from Him also stop reading the Bible…or certain portions of it.
The Holy Spirit brings conviction of sin. The end result is not to make you feel guilty, BUT to move you to the place of cleansing that comes from Jesus. He alone can wipe away the stains of your sinfulness. He does it completely.
The world hates Jesus when He exposes their sin and reminds them that judgment day is coming. Christians are a reminder that judgment day is coming. Persecutors hope wrongly… remove the messenger and the message, then escape judgment of actions.
As a follower of Jesus, your message is not trying to be a perfect person. Your message is one of redemption. All of us have gone astray, but Jesus redeems those who come to Him for cleansing. May you get all washed up today.
Blessings Love y’all