Allegiance to Christ (John 15:18-27)

Opening Illustration

What are some thing you hate or dislike? Sports teams? Look the part-act the part. Wearing a Philly jersey while cheering for the Cowboys.

The Battle Grounds of the 1st Century Church

“The earth has been filled with the blood of the martyrs as with seed, and from that seed have sprung the crops of the church. They have asserted Christ’s cause more effectively when dead than when they were alive". - Saint Augustine (Psalms Sermon)

Closing

Rough thought…

Are we known by the world or by the Word? Are we so disguised in our faith that those around us cannot see the salt and light given to us by The Father, through the Son, in the Spirit. We are quick to throw on our favorite jersey and ready ourselves for the ensuing insults and arguments as we defend our team, but are we ready to do the same for Christ and for His Kingdom as His elect?

Standing Strong in a Hostile World

Bible Passage: Jn 15:18–27

Summary: In John 15:18-27, Jesus prepares His disciples for the reality of opposition and hatred they will face from the world. He emphasizes the necessity of remaining connected to Him, as it is through this relationship that they will find strength and purpose amidst persecution.

Application: This passage serves as a powerful reminder for Christians today that being a follower of Christ may lead to rejection and hatred from the world. It encourages believers to persevere in their faith, find comfort in Christ’s words, and recognize that their identity and mission are rooted in Him, giving them courage to face adversities.

Teaching: The sermon will teach that while the world may reject us, we must embrace our identity in Christ and continue to bear witness to His truth. It underscores the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith despite external pressures and opposition.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage highlights Christ's role as both the source of our strength and the reason for the world's animosity. Jesus, who faced hatred and rejection Himself, becomes our model for enduring trials. Ultimately, His sacrificial love and perseverance in the face of opposition demonstrate the depth of His commitment to redemption and the triumph of His mission.

Big Idea: Even in a world that may despise us for our faith, we are called to stand firm in the love of Christ, knowing that we are never alone and that our witness is vital to the truth of His gospel.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the historical context of the early Christians and their experiences of persecution. Use Logos to delve into commentaries that discuss societal attitudes toward Christians in the first century and the implications for modern believers. Investigate exegetical studies that highlight key Greek terms in these verses, such as 'hate' and 'witness,' to deepen your understanding of their significance in the text.

1. Prepare for Persecution

Jn 15:18-20

Perhaps, you could emphasize how Jesus warns His followers of the world's hatred, highlighting this as a natural outcome of their identification with Him. Acknowledging that He Himself faced rejection, believers can find strength and assurance in following His footsteps, understanding that such opposition aligns them with Christ's mission and love.

2. Embrace Christ's Name

Jn 15:21-23

You could stress the call to embrace Christ's name and truth despite misunderstanding and hostility. Perhaps, this section will inspire believers to remain unapologetic in their faith, knowing that the world's ignorance is an opportunity to testify boldly about their unwavering allegiance to Christ.

3. Expose Spiritual Blindness

Jn 15:24-25

Maybe explore how Jesus uncovers the world's spiritual blindness through His works and words, fulfilling the prophetic expectation of rejection. In witnessing similar reactions today, believers can reflect on Christ's prophetic legitimacy and find confidence in knowing they share in His prophetic mission.

4. Empowered to Testify

Jn 15:26-27

Consider focusing on the assurance of the Holy Spirit's presence as the Comforter and Advocate. Believers are empowered to testify boldly about Christ, knowing that the Spirit enables them to witness effectively even amidst trial. This understanding reinforces the interconnection between believers and the divine mission.