Marked By Rejection

Nobody enjoys being hated. Mans’ natural tendency is to attempt to be liked. In these verses, Jesus flips this concept upside down, pointing to the reality that those who are hated based on their obedience to Christ are the ones who are truly blessed. We often hear from people outside the faith, that the Bible is a book with good moral principles, but nothing more than that. When we as Christians point to Christ as the only means of salvation and the only true God, those outside of relationship with the Lord tend to hate this idea. We as Christians, if we truly live out what Scripture teaches, reaching the nations with the words of the Gospel, we should be facing active persecution or are being looked down on for our personal holiness.

As Christians and as human beings, we need to break against the cultural and natural chase for approval. Jesus offers here two reasons for encouragement. First, we will have great reward, meaning we will receive eternal life and riches with Christ in Heaven. Second, the prophets before had gone through the same thing, but before Christ had come. How much more, knowing Christ has already come and defeated sin and death, should we live righteous and obedient lives regardless of what the world wants from us? Remembering the work of Christ on our behalf is the strength we need to break free from these cultural chains.

Respond with any questions, prayer requests, or encouragement

In Christ,

Josh Hernandez.