John 15:18-27

“If you were of the world, the world would love its own” (v19).  As we imitate Jesus, we can expect to experience the same rejection He did from an ungodly world.  Paul cautioned the early Christians not to create unnecessary trouble by their own foolishness: “As far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men” (Rom 12:18). However, the closer we follow Jesus’ example of self-sacrificial love and purity, the less we will “fit in” with our culture.  

Suffering “for Jesus’ sake” (v21) means being willing to love, serve, and live as He did, no matter the cost.