“Blessed are you when [...] people hate you” (LUKE 6:22).
1. What surprising words did Jesus say?
Jesus said something that surely surprised those who heard him: “Blessed are you when [...] people hate you,” as we read in Luke 6:22.
And it's striking, because normally no one associates hatred with happiness. But Jesus knew that his followers would face opposition for faithfully serving Jehovah. He wanted to help them understand that such hatred would not be a sign of spiritual failure, but rather proof that they were on the right side.
This suggests that when we face ridicule, criticism, or rejection because of our beliefs, we should not be discouraged. Rather, we can remember that Jesus had already foretold this and that Jehovah highly values our loyalty.
WHY DO PEOPLE HATE US?
2, 3. a) What is one reason why true Christians are persecuted? (John 16:2, 3).
A major reason why true Christians are persecuted is because we worship Jehovah, and Satan hates pure worship. At John 16:2, 3, Jesus explained that many people would oppose his followers because they do not truly know the Father or the Son.
Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 4:3, 4 shows that Satan blinds people's minds to lead them away from the truth. Therefore, opposition often stems from ignorance and the influence of Satan's world.
This makes us realize that when we experience rejection because of our beliefs, we are actually going through the same thing that faithful Christians of the past experienced. And although it can sometimes hurt, it is also encouraging to know that Jehovah fully understands our trials and never abandons those who remain loyal.
2, 3.b) What effect does knowing this have on our way of seeing the opposition?
Knowing that Satan is behind the opposition helps us not to hate those who persecute or mock us. Ephesians 6:12 explains that our struggle is not against human beings, but against the spiritual forces of evil.
Therefore, instead of holding a grudge, we try to view our opponents with compassion, understanding that many have been deceived.
The example of Pavel and the brother from Croatia demonstrates precisely that: they learned to identify Satan as the real enemy, not people.
This leads us to believe that maintaining a balanced attitude can protect our hearts from resentment. Furthermore, when we respond calmly and respectfully, we reflect Christian love and set an excellent example both within our families and in our congregations.
4. What do the examples of Jesus and Stephen teach us? (See also the image).
The examples of Jesus and Stephen teach us that true Christians do not return hatred for hatred. Matthew 5:44 says that we should pray for those who persecute us, and that is exactly what both Jesus and Stephen did.
Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them,” and Stephen also begged that their sin not be held against them. They understood that many people acted out of ignorance or under the influence of others.
The beautiful thing is that Jehovah answered those prayers, because later some repented and came to serve him faithfully, as happened with Saul of Tarsus. This makes us think that we should never lose hope regarding those who oppose him today.
ILLUSTRATION
A brother with bruises on his face prays in his prison cell while a guard watches over him.
Just as Jesus and the disciple Stephen did, we can pray for those who persecute us. (See paragraph 4.)
5. What do you learn from Cesar's experience?
Caesar's experience teaches us the enormous power of patience, good conduct, and prayer. Although his father opposed the truth, his mother remained a respectful wife and a balanced Christian, putting the Kingdom first without neglecting her family responsibilities.
Over time, that attitude softened her husband's heart. Finally, after a heartfelt prayer, César was able to invite his father to study the Bible, and he accepted.
This makes us think that Jehovah can change situations that seem impossible. Perhaps some of us have family members who still oppose or show no interest, but this account reminds us that we should never lose hope.
6. According to Mark 13:13, what is another reason why people hate us?
Another reason people hate us is because we support Jesus Christ as King of God’s Kingdom. Mark 13:13 says that we would be hated “because of” Jesus’ name, that is, for acknowledging his authority and his position as the ruler appointed by Jehovah.
Many people place all their trust in human leaders, but true Christians know that only the Kingdom of God will bring lasting solutions. Furthermore, Jesus has reigned since 1914 and will soon put an end to all governments that reject his authority.
This makes us think that our loyalty to Christ can sometimes make us different or misunderstood, but at the same time it fills us with peace to know that we are supporting the only government that will truly bring justice, peace, and happiness to all humanity.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
According to Mark 13:13, people hate us because we support Jesus and acknowledge his authority as King of God’s Kingdom. While many people put their trust in human governments, we place our hope in Jehovah’s Kingdom.
Although this may bring opposition, we are happy because we know that we are on the side of the only government that will solve all of humanity's problems.
7, 8. Why are some of Jehovah’s servants ridiculed? (John 15:18-20; see also the pictures.)
Many of Jehovah's servants are ridiculed because they are not part of Satan's world. In John 15:18-20, Jesus explained that the world would hate his followers because they would be different.
True Christians strive to live according to biblical standards and reject the way of thinking and acting that is common today. For this reason, some young people are ridiculed at school and many brothers and sisters face criticism at work.
Ignatius's example demonstrates that standing firm can provide an excellent testimony. Although his teacher mocked him for years, he eventually came to respect him and even began to study the Bible.
This makes us think that our good conduct can greatly influence others. Sometimes, those who criticize our faith today might draw closer to Jehovah tomorrow.
ILLUSTRATION
Ignacio's school scene: 1. Ignacio sits, looking respectfully and calmly at his teacher, while the teacher mocks him in front of the other students. 2. Then, the teacher listens attentively to what Ignacio says.
Regardless of our age, we can all be courageous and stand up for our faith. (See paragraph 8).
9, 10. a) For what other reason are we different from Satan's world?
Another reason we differ from Satan's world is that we maintain Christian neutrality in political matters and wars. John 18:36 shows that Jesus' Kingdom is not of this world, and therefore true Christians avoid getting involved in political or military conflicts.
Although we respect the laws and authorities, our primary loyalty belongs to Jehovah and his Kingdom. This stance sometimes provokes criticism, misunderstanding, and even persecution. But this leads us to believe that our neutrality demonstrates complete trust in Jehovah and his government.
Furthermore, keeping ourselves separate from political divisions helps to preserve peace and unity within the worldwide congregation, something truly beautiful in such a divided world.
9, 10. b) What do we learn from the example of the apostle Paul?
From the example of the apostle Paul, we learn that no circumstance should stop our preaching. Even when arrested and imprisoned, he continued to share the good news with anyone who would listen, including guards, governors, and influential people.
Acts 28:30 shows that Paul took every opportunity to bear witness. Many brothers and sisters today do the same, even while in prison for remaining neutral. Some even consider this time an opportunity to find sincere people.
This makes us think that Jehovah can use any situation to give a good witness. And although facing opposition is never easy, knowing that we follow Paul's example fills us with courage and helps us to maintain a positive and happy attitude.
WHY WE CAN BE HAPPY WHEN THEY HATE US
11. Why is our faith strengthened by suffering persecution? Give an example.
Our faith is strengthened by suffering persecution because we clearly see the Bible's prophecies fulfilled. From Genesis 3:15 it was foretold that there would be enmity between Jehovah's servants and those who follow Satan.
Furthermore, Jesus and other Bible writers repeatedly warned that Christians would be hated and persecuted. So when we face opposition, we are not surprised. Rather, we understand that we are living out exactly what Jehovah foretold.
The example of the sister whose work was restricted is very encouraging. Although she suffered greatly, even within her own family, it convinced her even more that she was in the truth. This makes us think that trials can strengthen our trust in Jehovah and help us to remain steadfast.
12. What helped a brother endure persecution?
What helped this brother endure persecution was primarily constant prayer and spiritual meditation. He acknowledged that there were very difficult times in prison, filled with anguish and sadness, but he sought refuge in Jehovah through continuous prayer.
He also meditated on examples of faithful servants, both past and present, who had endured similar trials. As a result, he experienced the peace that Jesus promised at John 14:27 and 16:33. This suggests that when we face intense problems, we should not isolate ourselves spiritually.
Talking to Jehovah frequently can give us emotional strength and inner peace. In addition, remembering the experiences of faithful brothers and sisters is very encouraging and helps us to feel that we are not alone in our struggles.
13. What will help us overcome hatred?
What will help us overcome hatred is developing a deep love for Jehovah and for our brothers and sisters. Jesus demonstrated that love to the very end of his life, remaining loyal to his Father and showing genuine affection for his disciples.
John 15:13 highlights that true love is even willing to sacrifice itself for others. When we cultivate this kind of love, people's hatred loses its power over us. This leads us to understand that Christian love is not merely a feeling, but a powerful spiritual protection.
Furthermore, within the congregation we continually see displays of affection, support, and unity that help us to endure any opposition. Knowing that Jehovah loves us and that we belong to such a close-knit spiritual family truly strengthens our hearts.
14. What helped Paul to be loyal when facing death?
What helped Paul remain loyal when facing death was his deep love for Jehovah. At 2 Timothy 1:7, he recalled that God gives “power, love, and sound judgment,” not a spirit of cowardice. That love for Jehovah motivated Paul to keep going, even when he knew that execution awaited him.
Acts 20:22-24 shows that he was determined to faithfully complete his ministry no matter the cost. This makes us think that true love for Jehovah can give us great courage in difficult times.
When we strengthen our friendship with Him through study, prayer, and preaching, our hearts are filled with motivation to remain steadfast even under intense pressure or trials.
15. How are our brothers demonstrating that they feel a deep love for one another? (See also the picture.)
Our brothers demonstrate a deep love for one another by supporting and encouraging each other, even in dangerous situations. The example of the brothers in Russia is very moving. Many risk their own safety to attend court hearings and support those arrested for their faith.
That sister who was moved to tears upon seeing so many brothers and sisters present clearly felt the love of her spiritual family. Romans 16:3 and 4 also recalls how Aquila and Priscilla risked their lives for Paul.
This leads us to believe that Christian love is not superficial; it is demonstrated through actions. In the congregation, we continually see support, companionship, and sincere encouragement, especially in difficult times. And this powerful love truly overcomes any hatred or persecution.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
Our brothers demonstrate profound love by supporting one another, even under persecution. The example of Russia shows that many risk their safety to encourage arrested brothers.
Just as Aquila and Priscilla helped Paul, today the worldwide brotherhood continues to demonstrate a courageous and sincere love that greatly strengthens those who go through trials.
ILLUSTRATION
Two female police officers escort a sister towards a patrol car while a group of brothers applaud her.
Even where our work is prohibited or restricted, our brothers are demonstrating that they feel a deep love for one another. (See paragraph 15.)
16. Why did the apostle Peter say that those who suffer opposition for serving God can be happy? (1 Peter 4:14).
Peter said that those who suffer opposition for serving God can be happy, because that opposition shows that they have Jehovah’s approval and spirit. 1 Peter 4:14 explains that “the spirit of glory, the spirit of God,” rests upon those who faithfully endure.
Peter himself experienced this when he was arrested and beaten for preaching. Even so, Acts 5:40-42 says that the apostles rejoiced at having been considered worthy to suffer for the name of Jesus.
This makes us realize that Jehovah observes every sacrifice and every act of loyalty. Although trials may be painful, knowing that we have God's approval brings a deep inner happiness that no one can take away.
17. What did Jesus say to his disciples the night before his death?
According to John 14:21, the night before his death, Jesus told his disciples: “Whoever loves me, my Father will love him, and I will love him.” Jesus wanted his followers to know that they would never be alone and that Jehovah’s love would always be with them.
Although we still face hatred and opposition today, we have the sure hope that soon the Kingdom will end all injustice and only true love will exist.
This makes us think that any present suffering is temporary. While we wait for that time, remembering the love of Jehovah and Jesus comforts us greatly and gives us strength to continue serving them with joy and confidence.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
Why do people hate followers of Jesus?
People hate followers of Jesus because Satan influences the world and because true Christians support the Kingdom of God, reject the world's way of thinking, and remain neutral.
In what sense is our love stronger than hate?
Our love is stronger than hate because love for Jehovah and our brothers helps us to endure trials, to stay united, and to respond with kindness, even when others treat us badly.
Why can we be happy when we are hated?
We can be happy when we are hated because persecution confirms that Bible prophecies are being fulfilled. Furthermore, we have Jehovah’s support and spirit, and we know that he helps us when we remain loyal.
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