Same for You

John 15:20-21 “Remember the words I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you, also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me.”
 
DO you become discouraged because it seems no one wants to know about Jesus? You talk to your family, co-workers, neighbors, strangers and your church acquaintances about God’s care and blessings. In love and unity with God’s Holy Spirit, you offer to pray for people and lend a helping hand. Yet, many reject you. But be encouraged. As disappointing as it is to watch people reject the LORD God, Jesus said this would happen.
   The Bible tells you there are two distinct categories of people: those who do not believe in God and those who do. Recorded biblical history defines the difference in every generation beginning with Adam and Eve. Why then, would it be different now? Yes, Jesus has come. The New Testament of grace has been delivered and preached. Millions, perhaps billions, have confessed Jesus is Lord of their lives. But there are millions, likely billions, who have not. Jesus warned and at the same time encouraged his disciples to know they would rejoice and also struggle in their ministry. He assured them that many would oppose them. As some received Jesus in the early church, many more rejected him. This is one reason we have the gospels and epistles now. John, for example, wrote this gospel and other letters to evangelize and to defend the truth. Hebrews was written specifically to Jews who refused to receive Jesus as Messiah. Paul’s epistles were written mainly to churches who experienced failed faith and division because of false teachings. Much of John is about Jesus preparing his disciples for his departure. He speaks in many ways to strengthen their faith in him. He tells them the truth of how their ministry will be. His warnings of unbelief are preparation for the struggle all disciples encounter.
   Look again, too, at John 13:15 “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” Our Lord had just washed his disciples’ feet. They are in awe of Jesus’ slave-like act. He has set an example in his work. He has set an example in his teaching. Gospel preaching is being a slave to the truth. We must tell it at all costs with no expectation of personal rewards. All we do must be focused on the Master’s glory.
   In faith and hope move on to those who will receive Jesus. Be quietly persistent to do the Lord’s will. Be encouraged. When your servant heart is as Jesus’ heart, God will move you past the unbelievers to discover those who believe.
   One other thing. Sometimes people who reject your words will receive another’s teaching. Or the Spirit will awaken them later to the truth. The Lord works in his time. Join him. Rejoice he has chosen you to serve the kingdom of God. There is no greater task than to be God’s tool of salvation into eternal life. Live in joy you get to do this. Your joy, then, will be complete.