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

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Illustration

Illustration of John 15:18-20 NLT — "If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.

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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.

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