fredlott63

John 15:18 - 25

I will cover this verse by verse. This is from the mouth of Christ. First read the verse, then read the comments.

Verse 18

Jesus says His disciples will be hated. If you have thousands in attendance, and millions watching around the world and people want to hear you speak and buy your merchandise that is not how it is supposed to be. Satan has deceived the whole world. If satan has deceived them, they will disagree with everything you say and do and hate you. Especially when what you read disagrees with what they have accepted as true.

Verse 19

You can become a millionaire telling people God’s grace means you don’t have to obey God’s law. It is okay to steal and murder, but we must pay tithes. That being saved means you won’t have any problems and everyone will agree with you. James 4:4 says friendship with the world is enmity with God. Following Jesus will not make you popular.

Verse 20

Jesus was killed by the very ones He came to heal, feed, and care for. A servant is not greater than his lord. You are following Christ when you provide a positive benefit to those around you but they hate you, They will dislike everything you say and do, but they will accredit God for everything you do for them.

Verse 21

You should calmly endure life because it is not personal. Their minds have been deceived. We should take up our cross and follow Christ. A cross is not pleasant. Jesus had to carry the cross they were to kill Him on. The religious community will not like you either. If you don’t bear your cross, Christ says you are not worthy in Matthew 10:38. God appeals to emotion but satan appeals to intellect. Don’t make emotional decisions. True mature Christians don’t finger point, persecute, or kill for Christ. They endure trials and tribulations and get killed for Christ.

Verse 22 - 25

A pastor should teach God’s word. When the word of God is taught by someone who understands, it will improve the lives of those who listen if they follow instructions.
Even though the bringer of truth will be disliked. God is in control.

fiatlux

We all have our view. Why will they be hated in verse18? Because they respond with love and forgiveness, instead of violence and revenge.

A "cross is not pleasant": but our "burden is light." What is "the cross"? The freedom from worldliness. Not pleasant and utterly joyful.

fredlott63

It is impossible for to know the thoughts in another man's mind or what motivates his actions.