Knowing Jesus - Knowing His Persecution

Introduction:

Phil 3:10 - that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings

Hated for Jesus (John 15:18-6:4):
The Reality: Why Will the World Hate You? :

  1. Because you're Not Like the world. (John 15:18-19)

    1 John 3:12 - We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother's righteous

    See: Prov 29:27

  1. Because the world hates Jesus. (John 15:20ab)

    See: John 13:10

  2. Because the world hates being called out for their Sin . (John 15:20c-25)

    See: Psalm 69:4

    John 7:7 - The world… hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil.

The Response: What Do You Do About It?

  1. Power up. (John 15:26-27)
  2. Prepare yourself. (John 16:1)

    Matt 10:16 - Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.

    1 Pet 4:12 - Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

  3. Persevere . (John 16:2-4)

    See: 2 Tim 3:12

Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!

Small Group Discussion
Read John 15:18-16:4

  1. What was your big “take-away” from this passage / message?

  2. Tell of a time you were hated because of your faith, faced persecution on any level. How did you react?

  3. Why exactly was Jesus so hated by so many? See John 7:7. How does this cause the world to hate us?

  4. If persecution is a reality, is it wrong to flee from it? Or is enduring it always the right thing to do? Defend your position!

  5. How exactly does the Holy Spirit empower your witnessing (John 15:26-27)?

Breakout
Pray for one another.