John 16:4 (NLT)
Yes, I’m telling you these things now, so that when they happen, you will remember my warning.
Jesus forewarned His followers that the world would hate them—even to martyrdom. Jesus wanted them to have a realistic description of what many of Christ’s followers throughout history have faced. Even in our society, though rooted in the history, culture, and practices of Christianity, for the most part, people have either rejected or forgotten the religious beliefs of Christianity. Jesus comforts us by reminding us that we have not been left alone. He has sent the Holy Spirit (vs. 7) to guide us, anoint our testimony, and comfort us. Persecution is inevitable. Jesus doesn’t want us to be surprised as though something unusual is happening to us. Today, pray for our fellow believers who live or minister in places where they are a special target of the world’s hatred.
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