Ten words we should accept

You will be hated by all for my name's sake.

Luke 21:17

These ten words are NOT the effect of the gospel we normally hear talked about among modern Christians. But they are exactly what happens in the world system when Christians live in the light. We will be hated by those whose dark sin is most dear to them. Jesus starts warning His disciples of the inevitability of persecution in verse 12, where for His name’s sake they will be persecuted and delivered up to religious and civil authorities. This isn’t as much a warning as a reminder that this will be an opportunity for them to bear witness to the gospel (Luke 21:13).

But even in that moment, Jesus promises that He will provide in them the right response, so they should not fear its eventual time (Luke 21:14-15). Even family would turn against His disciples as they would be hated by all (Luke 21:16). They could endure and gain eternal life, knowing that by faith in Jesus they will never truly perish (Luke 21:18-19)

Yes, Christianity is hated by many in this world. But the gospel is still a powerful, life-changing message of love... good news to sinners who repent. And though it may be costly and hurtful at times for us to proclaim it, the church MUST bear the message of the cross even under persecution. And Jesus shall reign. One day He will judge all sin, even the sin of persecution, and in eternity, no suffering we undertake in this life will seem to matter in the light of His love. We will delight in His love, His rule, and His worship!