EVANGELISTIC LIFESTYLE AND FAITHFULNESS AMIDST HOSTILITY 1
MAY 22, 2026
TEXT: “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.” (John 15:18)
It is not a disputable fact to state that we live in a world where great hostility and hatred are usually exhibited towards the gospel. Many are mocked for their faith. Many are even persecuted and taken before authorities, all in an attempt to silence the flow of evangelism.
However, it is not quite surprising, for even our Captain and Master, Jesus Christ, also faced the same level of antagonism and opposition. Jesus was severely castigated by the Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and other religiously fanatical groups that existed in His days. Jesus Christ warned His disciples not to be surprised if they found out that they were hated by the world, because the world hated Him before it hated them. Darkness has a natural tendency to oppose light. When Christians live rightly and act justly, it becomes a threat to the kingdom of darkness (2 Timothy 3:12).
Daniel was persecuted by the councilors and satraps in Babylon under the reign of the great King Darius. Nevertheless, Daniel waxed stronger. He had an excellent spirit in him and lived according to godly ordinances, thereby attracting hatred from his fellow leaders (Daniel 6:10-16).
As believers, we must pray for divine grace not to be ashamed of the gospel even amidst hostility. We must remain faithful to Him who has called us. All eyes are on us and on the way and manner in which we conduct ourselves and our activities. They will surely persecute us; that is very certain. Persecution is not a sign of God’s absence in our lives. It is an evidence of genuine discipleship. Thus, there is no act of persecution for the gospel’s sake that goes unrewarded. According to Apostle Paul, present sufferings cannot compare with the future glory that God has for us.
SEARCHLIGHT: Tribulations and oppression in the midst of evangelism are certain, but relax because God is on your side, even if you cannot actively feel it.
PRAYER: My God and my Father, help me to hold on despite every inhibition, in Jesus’ mighty name.
BIBLE READING: Ezra 5–7, Hebrews 7
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
