Are You Hated Because of Jesus?

He [Jesus] looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." 

He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.

Then [they] went out and began to plot … how they might kill Jesus.  Mark 3:5-6

Jesus said, “All men will hate you because of me” (Luke 21:17). 

Are you hated because of Jesus?  If not, then I must ask, why not?

Do you witness, do you offer to pray for the hurting, do you offer to lay-on-hands for the healing of those around you?  I’m referring to those who are in the community you live and work within, not church friends—are your eyes fixed with compassion upon those who need to hear of the hope and encouragement found in Christ alone?  If so, then around you are those who have stubborn hearts toward the Lord Jesus Christ, therefore, they hate you – it’s that simple. 

Again I ask, “Are you hated because of Jesus?”  I hope your answer is, “Yes!” 

Owen <><

Matt 10:22, Mark 13:13

All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.

(see also: Luke 21:17, Matt 10:22, Mark 13:13, Luke 6:22).