1 John 3:13-15
13 Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you. 14 We know that we have passed out of death into life because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death. 15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
John was all about confidence and assurance. He wrote in a way that addressed judgment with confidence and as we recently observed, the obedience of God and love for the brethren provide all the assurance we need to face God calmly even in judgment. So it is no surprise if the world hates believers.
They come with a love for each other that far outclasses the shallow, unstable best effort a pagan has to offer. You might notice jealousy in the world’s attitude, but it is definitely hate. That’s very sad because all anyone has to do to share in the wealth of God’s love is believe in Jesus receiving Him as Savior.
The world takes radical viewpoints because there is no hope outside of Christ, and they want to stay outside of Him. Something wonderful happens to a person who puts their faith in Christ – they are indwelt by God, Father, Son, and Spirit and they can receive the love of God and find they are able to love even people they may not like. This proves they have passed out of death into life.
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