The Vineyard- May 17, 2015

The Vineyard

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5

 

John 15:18-16:4

-          The Hatred of the World

o   The world hates Jesus, because through His words and His works, Jesus revealed to the world all the ways that it is wrong and in sin.  When Jesus’ word reveals to you something that you have done wrong, how do you react?  With hatred like the world, or with thankfulness and a desire to repent?

-          Being like Jesus

o   Jesus says that the world hated Him first, and that it will hate us as well if we are anything like Him.  How much have you suffered for being like Jesus?  Could it be that if we don’t suffer for Jesus, it is because the world doesn’t see enough of Him in us?

-          Be Prepared

o   Jesus warns us of how the world will hate us, so we will be prepared for it.  How is suffering made more bearable when it is expected?

Pray that the world will be convicted of its sin through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Pray that we will bear the image of Christ, even if that leads to suffering. 

Pray that Christians around the world will be prepared to receive the world’s hatred, and respond with the love of Christ.