THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/Why Are Jesus' True Followers Hated?

Hated for Being "No Part of the World

"Do not be loving either the world or the things in the world," the Bible says.  (1 John 2:15) To which world was the apostle John referring?  The world of mankind estranged from God and in submission to Satan.  He is "the god of this world." -2 Corinthians 4:4, The New Testament in Modern  English; 1 John 5:19. 

Sadly, some who love the world and its bad ways oppose those who try to  live by the Bible teachings.  Hence, Jesus said to his apostles:  "If you were part of the world, the world would be fond of its own. Now because you are no part of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, on this account the world hates you." -John 15:19. 

How sad that people hate Jehovah's servants for not embracing a world that is riddled with corruption, injustice, and violence and that is ruled by Satan! Many sincere people want to make the world a better place, but they are no match for its unseen ruler.  Only Jehovah God can get rid of Satan-and he will, by utterly destroying him, as if by fire! -Revelation 20:10, 14. 

That wonderful prospect is a key element in the precious "good news of the kingdom" proclaimed worldwide by Jehovah's Witnesses.  ( Matthew 24:14) Yes, the Witnesses are convinced that only God's Kingdom, his government by Christ, will bring lasting peace and happiness to the earth.  (Matthew 6:9,, 10) Hence, they will continue to proclaim  that Kingdom, viewing God's approval as far more important than that of men.  

Next time:  A WALK ALONG THE SLAVE ROUTE

From the Awake! magazine