Okay, I really need someone to feel me on this one. And I know it to be true, because I’ve experienced it quite a few times and often recently, but people will often hate the Jesus in you (even if you have not expressly stated that you are Christian) (Mt 10:22).
In America, the insults, persecution, and lies that Christians often face are relatively harmless, and are only dangerous on a social level, so for those of us who have survived adolescence, dealing with it should be a piece of cake (1 Pe 3:17). But knowing scripture lets us know how to respond when we are tested in this:
- First of all, we shouldn’t be surprised by it. Jesus said very plainly that men will hate us because of him (Mt 10:22). We are just visiting after all (1 Pe 4:12). We’re a peculiar people (1 Pe 2:9 KJV). People of the world don’t understand why we bless when we’re cursed, why we are hopeful, why we don’t lie to make life ‘easier’ for ourselves, etc.
- Secondly, we’re never fear the world (Mt 10:28).
- Thirdly, not that we should deny everyone else, but Christians are to encourage one another (Mt 28:19-20; 1 Pe 3:8; Heb 10:25; 1 Th 3:2’ 4:18; 5:11)
- And fourth, and best of all, we’re blessed (Mt 5:11-12)!
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