TODAY’S SERMON: February 22, 2026
Studies in John: 41 Why The World Hates Christians - John 15:18-27
There's no way to get around the truth of the scriptures we are studying today. Jesus’ words in this text are easy to read, but difficult to accept. Because we live in the great nation of America, Christians have not experienced persecution here as those who live in other countries; especially Muslim dominated countries. However, Jesus’ words are a prophecy of what will come if one decides to follow Him.
“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”
We don’t like the word “hate.” Especially in today’s culture, the word hate is used to defend groups against anyone who disagrees with their actions or lifestyle. Tolerance is being adopted as the new, progressive mindset that squeezes us into the world’s mold of accepting everyone for who they are, no matter what they do. But have you noticed how intolerant the world is towards Christians?
Have you noticed how political correctness forbids humor at the expense of anyone EXCEPT Christians? Have you noticed how the 10 Commandments are being pushed out while Islamic practices are being pushed in?
Why is this happening? Because Jesus told us it would happen. Jesus warned His followers that they would be hated, despised, and disgusting in the eyes of those who oppose Him.
But why does it have to be this way? Simple, because the world is anti-Christ and those who follow Jesus are constant reminders that their evil ways will lead to eternal damnation and destruction. Everyone who lives for Christ shines the light of Christ into a dark world, and as John said, “The world could not overcome it” (John 1:5).
Your life is a reminder to a dark and perishing world. Decide today that you will not turn back because of the world’s hate for you. Determine in your mind that you will stand for Jesus!
“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”
We don’t like the word “hate.” Especially in today’s culture, the word hate is used to defend groups against anyone who disagrees with their actions or lifestyle. Tolerance is being adopted as the new, progressive mindset that squeezes us into the world’s mold of accepting everyone for who they are, no matter what they do. But have you noticed how intolerant the world is towards Christians?
Have you noticed how political correctness forbids humor at the expense of anyone EXCEPT Christians? Have you noticed how the 10 Commandments are being pushed out while Islamic practices are being pushed in?
Why is this happening? Because Jesus told us it would happen. Jesus warned His followers that they would be hated, despised, and disgusting in the eyes of those who oppose Him.
But why does it have to be this way? Simple, because the world is anti-Christ and those who follow Jesus are constant reminders that their evil ways will lead to eternal damnation and destruction. Everyone who lives for Christ shines the light of Christ into a dark world, and as John said, “The world could not overcome it” (John 1:5).
Your life is a reminder to a dark and perishing world. Decide today that you will not turn back because of the world’s hate for you. Determine in your mind that you will stand for Jesus!