If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own. Because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world—therefore the world hates you (John 15:19).
Jesus told His true disciples—ones He had chosen out of the world—some sobering facts that will help all His faithful followers around the world. First, remember that Jesus still chooses His followers out of the world to become His loving friends and devoted disciples. Second, remember that Jesus’ true disciples do not belong to the world—they belong to Jesus—therefore the world hates them. Third, to understand the world in which they live, the followers of Jesus must remember that the world still hates and persecutes Jesus’ followers. Why the hatred? Jesus said that those who persecute His followers do not know the Father who sent Him into the world. Even worse, Jesus said they hate the Father and Him. Those of this world saw, heard, and without cause crucified Jesus because they hated the Father, Jesus, and His disciples. If we understand these facts, then we will know some of the reasons those of this world believe and act as they do. Fourth, those who think, speak, and act as Jesus and His first disciples acted should expect the same reaction of hatred from the world. They will be hated by the world because the chosen followers of Jesus do not belong to this world. Fifth, remember if you follow Jesus, it is because Jesus chose you and sent the Spirit of Truth to live within you, so you could be a good witness for the Him whenever you tell others about Him—some will listen, believe, and love Him.
First, I love your site. Second, I could not find commentary on Matthew 26:36-75
Hello Howard,
Thank you for your kind comment. More than 10 years ago I began writing online commentaries on the Uniform Lesson Series, also known as the International Bible Lessons. About two years ago, I learned that to continue doing so I needed to pay a license fee to the National Council of Churches. So, I began a Bible Lesson Series through the Gospel of John and only have Archives of previous Uniform Lessons available. Since the Uniform Lessons sometimes repeat, the Archives I have are sometimes helpful and I try to post the Archive link here on this Forum (but I sometimes forget). Unfortunately, I do not have an archived lesson on Matthew 26:36-ff, only on Matthew 26:1-13. On a personal note, I am thankful that I began a new series on the Gospel of John because I have gotten to know and love Jesus Christ more personally by learning more about and from Him through this study. I have almost completed a study of Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer in John 17, and have been amazed to learn how much Jesus wants us to know how much He and the Father love us and want to in us and us in Him. His prayer ties in so closely with Paul writing about our bodies being the temple of God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit indwell all who trust in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Thanks for your question! I am sorry that I could not be of more help!
Love in the Lion and the Lamb,
L.G.