The World Hated Me First

If you are standing up and speaking out for Christ, expect the opposition to come against you.

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Hate is a strong word. I don’t even like using this word in a conversation. However, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ used this word to make specific points.  And yes, Jesus does hate certain things and He is very clear on this topic.

Let’s take a look at the Scriptures regarding the things that Jesus hates:

  1. Jesus hates anything that keeps us from living for Him – “The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life” (John 12:25). If we love anything more than we love Jesus, he despises this.
  2. Jesus hates those who choose to go against Him – “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God” (James 4:4; cf. 1 John 2:15-17). Jesus warns us that taking a stand with Him and for Him means we will have to make choices in this life.
  3. Jesus hates injustice. “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” (John 15:18).  From verses 18-25, Jesus uses the word, “hate” five different times. When I read something Jesus used numerous times, I see it as Him telling me to “pay attention”. Jesus knows the cost of following Him. He knows when we stand for Him, we will face hatred.

My fellow believers, if you are facing persecution, lost relationships, or personal attacks, understand that Jesus knew we would face this. He experienced this at a level I cannot even comprehend. Therefore, if you are standing up and speaking out for Christ, expect the opposition to come against you.

This week, I experienced a very personal and professional attack from a non-believer. This man systematically set out to try and discredit me in my business, my ministry, and my character. I have been very vocal regarding my stance on things that go against the Bible and my Christian belief system.

When we boldly take this stand, expect the enemy to come after us. Sometimes it is in the form of a person you wouldn’t expect. Just know, however, who is on your side!  I know Jesus is my all in all.

Therefore as Paul told us, in Ephesians 6:10-17 to be strong and to put on the full armor of God. Friends, this IS a battlefield. Are you ready to stand up for Christ? Be prepared by staying prayed up and read up! Stand together fellow Christians. We need one another more than ever before.

 

 

This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Dr. Paula McDonald.

Featured Image by Lutz Peter from Pixabay

 

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About the Author

DR. PAULA MCDONALD brings her life-long experiences, challenges, and God moments to life to all she meets. Along with a bachelor of science degree in Biology, a Master’s, and a Ph.D. degree in Theology, Dr. McDonald speaks from authority regarding science and the Bible. Her message to LIV2DAY will inspire you to get up and keep going in the storm.