The Three Relationships of Life – Part Three – Our Relationship with the World Another. (John 15:18–16:6)

Send us Fan Mail

Subscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.
https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

For an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;
patreon.com/JeremyMcCandless

Study Notes:

Overview

In this episode, we explore the third part of our mini-series within a series on "The Three Relationships of Life," focusing on our relationship with the world as described in John 15:18-16:6. This passage highlights the world's hostility towards Christians and the appropriate response of believers.

Key Themes

• Hostility from the World: Jesus warns that the world will hate His followers because it hated Him first. This hatred is rooted in the world's opposition to the values and teachings of Christ.
• The Call to Be Different: Christians are chosen to live distinct lives, embodying Christ's teachings and standing firm in their faith despite persecution.
• The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to witness and live out their faith boldly, acting as their Advocate and Guide.

John 15:18-25 – The World's Hatred

• Verse 18-19: The world hates Christians because they do not belong to the world; they are chosen by Christ.
• Verse 20-21: Jesus reminds His followers that they will be persecuted just as He was. This persecution is due to the world's ignorance of God.
• Verse 22-25: Jesus’ coming exposed sin, and those who reject Him also reject God. This fulfils the prophecy of being hated without cause (Psalms 35:19; 69:4).

Historical Context

• Early Christians faced severe persecution, accused of disloyalty, insurrection, and bizarre charges like cannibalism due to misunderstandings.
• Today, Christians are often seen as nonconformists, and their moral standards can be perceived as a silent condemnation of others.

Responsibilities of Being Chosen by Jesus

• Partnership with Christ: Believers are partners, not just followers. They share in His mission to lead the world to God.
• Ambassadors for Christ: Christians are to represent Christ in the world, living a life that attracts others to the faith.
• Living Advertisements: By embodying Christian virtues, believers spread Christianity through their actions, not just words.
• Privileged Members of God’s Family: Believers have the privilege of prayer, guided by faith, alignment with God’s will, and selflessness.

Practical Application

• In the Church: Active involvement in both the Lord and fellowship with other believers is crucial. Joining small groups fosters connections, support, and true fellowship.
• In the World: Believers are called to witness to non-believers, navigating obstacles with the insight and power of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Abide in Christ, love one another, and witness to the world. Whether you are a long-time believer or seeking to know more about Jesus, focus on Christ, follow His commands, and engage in meaningful relationships with other believers.
• Invitation: For those who do not know the Lord, an invitation to learn about Jesus Christ personally, trust in Him, and experience eternal life and peace.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update