John 15:18-16:4

1. Being chosen changes everything, v. 18-21
-World refers to the whole mass of humanity alienated from God, and therefore, hostile to the cause of Christ.

2. Opposition is the outworking of guilt, v. 22-25

Two things we need to see here:
1) The words and works of Jesus establish a standard of universal guilt for all of humanity. 
2) This is also the origin of objective truth for Christians.

3. We need both the internal & external witness, v. 26-27
a) internal witness- Holy Spirit
b) external witness- Christians 
-To bear witness simply means “to affirm that one has seen, heard or experienced something.” 

4. Jesus has a goal, v. 16:1-4
-1 John 2:19

Five theses on eternal security:

a. We are justified by grace alone through faith alone apart from any works. 
-Ephesians 2:8-9                
-Romans 3:28

b. Those who are justified will certainly be glorified.                                                                -Romans 8:30
 
c. No one will be glorified/finally saved who does not continue in faith.    
- I Corinthians 15:1-2
- Colossians 1:21-23

d. God Himself will keep His children from finally falling away. 
-Philippians 1:6
-1 Corinthians 1:8-9

e. God keeps His children by means of His children. 
-Hebrews 3:13-14
-James 5:19-20

Food for thought…
When the world hates you do you feel affirmed or defeated?  Why? 
What effects of guilt do you see at work in the world today? 
How does understanding the internal witness of the Holy Spirit inform your witness?
Do you know anybody who is drifting away that God is calling you to speak to in love? 
What do you think was God’s goal for you hearing this message today?