What Jesus Did! 'Hostility from the World' — John 15:18-20

Saturday, October 10, 2026

[Jesus continued,] "If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? 'A slave is not greater than the master.' Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you."
— John 15:18-20 NLT

Key Thought

Hate! We don't like that word, do we? Especially when we are the target of hate. Yet those who are disciples of Jesus must realize that their hero was unjustly murdered by those who rejected him because of jealousy, hate, misunderstanding, and rivalry. Some of us will follow in his steps by being persecuted. Some, even to martyrdom itself. Our hardships and difficulties do not invalidate Jesus' call. Neither do they invalidate our ministry. These problems are reminders that there is a spiritual battle for every human heart. [1] Satan will do all he can to silence our voices when we are the ones who bring God's salvation.

[1] Ephesians 6:11-12.

Today's Prayer

Father, please make me more aware of your servants who are facing persecution and hardship today. Give me the courage to stand for your truth and live your ethics even if those values cost me ridicule or rejection. Please, may my life bring you glory and praise, whether I find myself in hardship and persecution or in good times and acceptance. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

6 Related Resources by Heartlight

The World Hated Jesus, First
Devo: Spiritual Warfare
"If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part...."
Spurgeon AM Devo for Oct. 28th
Devo: Morning & Evening
"Here is distinguishing grace and discriminating regard; for some are made the special objects of divine affection. Do not be afraid to dwell upon this..."
Despised?
Devo: A Year with Jesus
"Dear Disciple, During My earthly ministry, I warned My disciples that following Me would not be easy. The words you read in the verses below were..."
In the Center of My Will
Devo: A Year with Jesus
"Dear Follower of the Way, The growth of My Kingdom will not necessarily be an easy undertaking. Spreading the good news of the Father's grace is..."
See All 6 Related Resources about John 15:18-20

Illustration

Illustration of John 15:18-20 NLT — I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Saturday, October 10, 2026

A Year with Jesus
A devotional to help reclaim Jesus as the daily Lord of our lives.
'The Blessing of Believing'
"Dear Seeker of Truth, Believing in My resurrection is a real challenge. That's understandable. Having a friend who dies and then suddenly appears,..."
Today's Verse
A daily devotional featuring a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
Luke 9:23-24
"Jesus said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will...."
Quotemeal
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
Quote by Flannery O'Connor:
"When we get our spiritual house in order, we'll be dead. This goes on. You arrive at enough certainty to be able to make your way, but it is making it in..."
Morning & Evening
The classic twice-daily devotional from Charles H. Spurgeon.
Morning Thought: Psalms 22:14
"Our blessed Lord experienced a terrible sinking and melting of soul. "The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity, but a wounded spirit who can..."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

More What Jesus Did!