Scripture References: John 15:18-16:11, John 1:9-12, 1:18, 14:18, 1 John 3:1, Matthew 6, Psalm 62, Hebrews 13:5, 4:15-16, 1 Peter 2:20-23, Ephesians 3:19
Intro:
- Personal connection to the Gospel of John and its focus on Jesus' love.
- Title: "Abiding When Hardship Happens."
- Definition of "abiding": relaxing deeply into something greater that holds and surrounds us.
- Focus on hardship due to faith-based rejection.
Key Points:
- Why the World Hates Jesus (and Us):
- John 15:21, 16:3: They do not know the Father or Jesus.
- Rejection stems from ignorance, not personal animosity.
- John 1:9-12: Jesus, the true light, was rejected by the world He created.
- John 1:18: Jesus revealed the Father's heart, yet many still reject.
- 1 John 3:1: God's love lavished on us, making us children of God.
- John 14:18: Jesus came to eliminate orphanness through the Holy Spirit.
- Orphans must strive, while children rest in their Father's provision.
- Responding to Rejection:
- Instead of retaliation, sink deeply into God's love.
- John 15:26, 16:5-7: The Holy Spirit, the Comforter, is sent to us.
- The Holy Spirit dwells within us, comforting and guiding.
- Pour out our hearts to God in honest prayer (Psalm 62).
- Trust in God's presence and comfort (Hebrews 13:5).
- Jesus understands our suffering (Hebrews 4:15-16).
- Entrust our lives to God, like Jesus did (1 Peter 2:20-23).
- Bear the fruit of love, reflecting God's love.
- Forgive as Jesus forgave, seeing the person behind the action.
- Ephesians 3:19: be filled to the measure of the fullness of God.
Conclusion:
- Rejection is painful, but God's love is greater.
- The Holy Spirit comforts and empowers us in hardship.
- We are called to respond with love, forgiveness, and trust.
Call to Action:
- When facing rejection, pour out your heart to God.
- Entrust your life and circumstances to Him.
- Receive God's love and allow it to flow through you.
- Forgive those who reject you, seeing them through God's eyes.
- Abide in God's love, allowing Him to hold and surround you.
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