“Blessed are you when [...] people hate you” (LUKE 6:22).
1. What surprising words did Jesus say?
The surprising words Jesus spoke in the Sermon on the Mount were: “Blessed are you when people hate you.” These words surely surprised those who heard them, because no one likes to be hated.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Jesus said that his followers could be happy even when hated by others. Although these words seemed surprising, he explained that those who suffer opposition for remaining faithful to God have reason to be happy.
In Luke 6:22, Jesus linked happiness with enduring rejection for his name's sake. This shows that true happiness does not depend on people's approval, but on having a good relationship with Jehovah.
When we face opposition for doing what is right, we can find satisfaction in knowing that we are acting in accordance with divine principles. Knowing beforehand that some will hate us for our faith helps us not to be surprised or discouraged when that happens.
The words in Luke 6:22 also prepared the disciples for a reality they would face in the future: opposition. Jesus didn't promise them a life free of difficulties, but he taught them how to view those trials from the right perspective.
WHY DO PEOPLE HATE US?
2, 3. a) What is one reason why true Christians are persecuted? (John 16:2, 3).
One reason true Christians are persecuted is because we worship Jehovah. The one behind all the hatred toward God’s people is Satan, “the god of this system.” He blinds people’s minds so they cannot learn the truth about Jehovah and influences them to turn against those who know and love God.
Speaking of those who would persecute and even kill some of his followers, Jesus said: “They have not come to know either the Father or me,” as mentioned at John 16:2, 3.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
One reason true Christians are persecuted is because we worship Jehovah. Many people oppose those who serve God because they do not truly know him and have been influenced by Satan to reject the truth.
In John 16:2, 3, Jesus explained that some would persecute his followers, believing they were doing the right thing. This teaches us that opposition does not always stem from personal wickedness, but rather from ignorance of Jehovah and Jesus. Understanding this reality helps us to maintain a balanced attitude and avoid responding with resentment.
2, 3.b) What effect does knowing this have on how we view our opponents?
Understanding that they have been deceived by Satan helps us not to hate them. Recognizing that the cause of the persecution is Satan and his demons, who never rest in their fight against pure worship, helps us understand that our true enemy is Satan, not the people he has deceived.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Knowing this helps us not to hate our opponents or hold grudges against them. We understand that they often act under deception or influenced by Satan, so we try to see them with compassion and understanding.
The words of Ephesians 6:12 remind us that our main struggle is not against human beings, but against spiritual forces that oppose true worship.
Bearing this fact in mind helps us to imitate the example of faithful brothers who did not allow persecution to make them develop hatred towards those who mistreated them, but instead correctly identified the origin of the problem.
4. What do the examples of Jesus and Stephen teach us? (See also the image).
The examples of Jesus and Stephen teach us that Christians do not hate those who persecute us; on the contrary, we pray for them and desire that they come to know the truth.
They both asked God to forgive those who were hurting them, because they understood that many of those people did not know what they were doing or were influenced by others.
Furthermore, their examples show that some people who oppose God's servants today can change, repent, and come to serve Jehovah, as was the case with Saul of Tarsus, who, after becoming a Christian, deeply regretted the terrible things he had done because of his ignorance.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The examples of Jesus and Stephen teach us that we should not hate those who persecute us. Rather, we should show love, pray for them, and recognize that they often act out of ignorance or because they have been influenced by misguided ideas.
In Luke 23:34, Jesus asked that those who participated in his execution be forgiven. His attitude demonstrates extraordinary love and a deep understanding that many of those people did not truly grasp the gravity of their actions. This example encourages us to respond with mercy, even when we are treated unjustly.
According to Acts 7:58-60, Stephen imitated Jesus by asking that the sin of those who stoned him not be held against them. In time, Jehovah responded to this compassionate attitude, for some opposers became faithful servants. This teaches us that we should never lose hope that someone who opposes us today can change and come to serve Jehovah.
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?
From Caesar's experience, we learn that we should never lose hope or stop praying for those who oppose the truth. His mother's efforts to be a good wife and mother, along with Caesar's heartfelt prayer to Jehovah, helped his father change his attitude, accept Bible study, and finally get baptized.
This experience also teaches us that some people can have their hearts softened by our Christian conduct and respectful way of speaking. In this way, Jehovah helps them to draw closer to him.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Caesar's experience teaches us that patience, respect, and good conduct can positively influence those who oppose the truth. It also shows that we should never lose hope or stop praying for people, because Jehovah can help them change in time.
Caesar's mother demonstrated excellent balance by putting the Kingdom first without neglecting her family responsibilities. Her respectful and consistent attitude helped create a favorable environment for her husband to reconsider his position.
The experience of Caesar's father confirms that some opponents can eventually become faithful servants of Jehovah. This example shows how exemplary Christian conduct can have a profound impact over the years.
The reference to Genesis 18:25 highlights that Jehovah is a just and merciful judge. Therefore, instead of giving up on someone who opposes the truth, we can trust that Jehovah knows each person's heart and can help them draw closer to him.
6. According to Mark 13:13, what is another reason why people hate us?
According to Mark 13:13, another reason why people hate us is because we support Jesus and acknowledge his authority as Jehovah’s chosen ruler. Many people trust human rulers and reject Jesus’ authority as King of God’s Kingdom, so they oppose those who acknowledge and support that authority.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Another reason people hate us is because we support Jesus as King of God’s Kingdom. Many people prefer to trust human governments and do not accept the authority Jehovah has given to Jesus Christ.
In Mark 13:13, Jesus warned that his followers would be hated because of his name. This indicates that those who support him and acknowledge his authority will face opposition.
Knowing that Jesus predicted that his followers would be hated because of his name helps us not to be discouraged when we face rejection for our beliefs.
The expression “for my name’s sake” in Mark 13:13 encompasses more than just Jesus’ name. It also includes his position and authority as King appointed by Jehovah. When we stand up for God’s Kingdom and trust in its rule as the solution for mankind, we demonstrate our loyalty to Christ, even though this is not always well received by those who put their hope in human systems.
7, 8. Why are some of Jehovah’s servants ridiculed? (John 15:18-20; see also the pictures.)
Some of Jehovah’s servants are ridiculed because they reject the thinking, acting, and speaking ways of Satan’s world. Jesus explained that people would hate his followers because they are “no part of the world.” Since they are no part of the world and strive to live in harmony with Bible principles, many people mock them.
However, good conduct and a firm adherence to God's standards can cause some people to change their attitude. This happened with Ignatius, whose teacher initially mocked him, but later he became interested in biblical teachings, began to study the Bible, and was eventually baptized.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Some of Jehovah’s servants are ridiculed because they do not conform to the world’s way of thinking, acting, and speaking. By striving to live in harmony with Bible principles, they distinguish themselves from those around them, and this sometimes provokes criticism or mockery.
In John 15:18-20, Jesus explained that his followers would be treated similarly to how he was treated. Because we are not part of the world, our choices and values may seem strange to others. However, this opposition can be a sign that we are remaining true to the principles Jesus taught.
Ignacio's experience demonstrates that firm and respectful behavior can have a positive effect on those who initially mock us.
As 1 Peter 4:3, 4 indicates, some people are surprised when Christians do not participate in certain practices. In time, our good conduct can arouse their curiosity and even motivate them to learn more about Jehovah and his standards.
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?
We are different from Satan's world because we are neutral in all matters related to politics and wars. Although we obey the laws of the land, we do not participate in political affairs or support any human candidate or government, for our loyalty is to Jehovah and his Kingdom, ruled by Christ.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Another reason we are different from Satan’s world is that we maintain strict neutrality in political and military matters. Although we obey the laws of the land, our primary loyalty is to Jehovah and his Kingdom.
In John 18:36, Jesus made it clear that his Kingdom is not of this world. That is why true Christians avoid getting involved in political conflicts and maintain a neutral position.
Our stance of remaining neutral in political matters may generate opposition, but it also demonstrates our confidence that the Kingdom of God is the only permanent solution for humanity.
9, 10. b) What do we learn from the example of the apostle Paul?
We learn that we must continue preaching the good news regardless of the circumstances, even when we face opposition or restrictions. Paul used his time under house arrest and in prison to share the good news with anyone willing to listen. His example teaches us to view every situation as an opportunity Jehovah gives us to find honesthearted people.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
From the example of the apostle Paul, we learn that we must continue preaching regardless of our circumstances. He saw every situation as an opportunity to bear witness, even when he was under arrest or in prison.
The accounts in Acts 24:27 and 28:16, 30 show that Paul did not allow imprisonment to stop his ministry. Instead of focusing on his limitations, he seized every opportunity to share the good news.
Paul's example teaches us to view difficulties as opportunities to continue serving Jehovah and helping others to know him.
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 see that what the Bible foretold is being fulfilled. Jehovah foretold that those who love and serve him would be hated by Satan and his symbolic offspring.
Furthermore, Jesus and other biblical writers spoke on many occasions about the hatred that God's servants would suffer. Therefore, when we face opposition or persecution, we are not surprised; on the contrary, we rejoice, because it confirms that we serve the true God.
One example is that of a sister who lived in a country where the ministry was restricted. Although her husband mistreated her and even burned her Bible and other publications, she remained faithful. Instead of weakening, her faith grew stronger because she understood that the persecution was foretold in the Bible. As she herself said: “Experiencing it firsthand convinced me that this is the true religion.”
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Our faith is strengthened by persecution because we see with our own eyes that biblical prophecies are being fulfilled. This confirms that we are on the right path and that we serve the true God.
The example of the sister who endured her husband's opposition shows how trials can strengthen our trust in Jehovah.
In Genesis 3:15, Jehovah foretold that there would be enmity between God's servants and those who oppose him. When we face rejection or persecution for our faith, we see that this prophecy continues to be fulfilled.
The words of Hebrews 10:39 highlight the importance of not backing down in the face of trials. Instead of becoming weak when we suffer persecution, remembering that Bible prophecies are being fulfilled can strengthen our conviction that the Bible is inspired by God and always speaks the truth.
The sister mentioned in the paragraph endured strong family opposition, but she remained steadfast. Her example shows that persecution does not have to distance us from Jehovah. On the contrary, when we trust in him and persevere, our faith becomes stronger and more mature.
12. What helped a brother endure persecution?
What helped one brother endure persecution was his constant prayer to Jehovah and his meditation on examples of faithful servants who remained loyal. The first thing he did each morning was pray, and throughout the day, when he faced difficulties, he spoke to Jehovah. Thanks to this, he was able to endure the persecution and experience the peace that Jesus promised his disciples.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
What helped this brother endure persecution was his constant prayer to Jehovah and his meditation on examples of faithful servants who had remained loyal despite trials. Thanks to this, he was able to stand firm and find inner peace.
In John 14:27, Jesus promised a peace unlike the peace the world offers. The brother experienced that peace by repeatedly turning to Jehovah in prayer. His example shows that sincere prayer can help us cope with anxiety, fear, and frustration when we face difficult situations.
The words of John 16:33 remind us that Christ's followers would face difficulties, but they would also have reasons to be courageous.
Meditating on the examples of faithful servants of the past and present strengthens our trust in Jehovah. Seeing how others have endured similar trials helps us to persevere and maintain a positive attitude.
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 until his last breath: he loved his Father with all his heart and also his friends. If we imitate his example and strengthen our love for Jehovah and for our brothers and sisters, we too will be able to overcome hatred.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
What will help us overcome hatred is developing a deep love for Jehovah and for our brothers and sisters. When that love is strong, we can remain loyal to God and treat others with kindness, even when we face opposition or rejection.
In John 13, it is emphasized that Jesus continued to love his disciples until the end of his life. His example demonstrates that true love does not depend on circumstances nor does it disappear when difficulties arise.
If we cultivate the same love that Jesus showed for his disciples, we will be able to maintain a positive attitude even when others treat us with hostility.
The words of John 15 show the depth of Jesus’ love for his friends. That love moved him to sacrifice himself for them and to remain faithful to Jehovah to the end.
Our love for Jehovah and for our brothers gives us the strength to endure opposition and to respond to hatred with love instead of resentment.
14. What helped Paul to be loyal when facing death?
What helped Paul to remain loyal in the face of death was his deep love for Jehovah. That love gave him courage, power, and strength to endure very difficult trials and remain faithful. Because of his love for God, Paul was able to act courageously and loyally in the face of death.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
What helped Paul to remain loyal in the face of death was his deep love for Jehovah. That love gave him the courage and determination to remain faithful, even knowing that he would have to endure great suffering.
In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul reminded us that Jehovah does not give a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound judgment. This shows that love for God strengthens us to face difficult situations with courage. When we trust in Jehovah, we can overcome our fears and remain steadfast in our faith.
The words in Acts 20:22-24 reflect Paul’s determination to fulfill his ministry no matter the cost. He was more concerned with remaining faithful to Jehovah than with protecting his own life. His example teaches us that a deep love for God can help us remain loyal even in the most difficult trials.
15. How are our brothers demonstrating that they feel a deep love for one another? (See also the picture.)
Our brothers and sisters are demonstrating their deep love for one another by supporting and encouraging those facing persecution, even risking their own lives for them. For example, in Russia, many brothers and sisters attend court hearings to accompany and strengthen those arrested for their faith. This support demonstrates their profound love for their brothers and sisters and strengthens those most in need.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Our brothers demonstrate a deep love for one another by supporting, encouraging, and helping each other, especially when one of them faces persecution or hardship. They are willing to make personal sacrifices to strengthen and stand by their brothers when they need it most.
Romans 16:3-4 mentions that Aquila and Priscilla risked their lives for Paul. Their example shows that Christian love goes beyond words; it is demonstrated through concrete actions and sacrifices.
When we put the spiritual well-being of our brothers and sisters above our own comfort, we reflect the same spirit of love that characterized first-century Christians.
The experience of the brothers who attended the court to support an arrested sister demonstrates the power of love within the congregation. Their presence gave her strength during a very difficult time.
This kind of support, like that shown by the brothers who attended the court to support an arrested sister, confirms that Christian love is stronger than hate and that Jehovah uses our spiritual family to give us encouragement and strength when we face 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).
The apostle Peter said that those who suffer opposition for serving God can be happy because that opposition demonstrates that they have Jehovah’s approval and that God’s spirit rests upon them. Therefore, even though the trials are difficult, they can rejoice in knowing that God considers them “worthy to suffer dishonor for the name of Jesus.”
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The apostle Peter said that those who suffer opposition for serving God can be happy, because these trials demonstrate that they have Jehovah's approval and that his spirit is with them. Persecution is evidence that they are remaining faithful to God.
1 Peter 4:14 explains that suffering in service to God is a cause for happiness because it indicates that God’s spirit rests upon us. This helps us to view trials from a positive perspective. Instead of interpreting them as a sign of abandonment, we can see them as confirmation that Jehovah is pleased with our faithfulness.
The account in Acts 5:40-42 shows that the apostles were not discouraged after being beaten. On the contrary, they were honored to suffer for supporting Jesus and continued to preach boldly.
The example of the apostles, who did not become discouraged after being beaten, teaches us that true happiness does not depend on circumstances, but on knowing that we have Jehovah's approval and that we continue to do his will.
17. What did Jesus say to his disciples the night before his death?
The night before his death, Jesus told his disciples that whoever loves him will be loved by his Father, Jehovah, and also by him. Those words encourage us to eagerly await the day when love will finally reign and no one will hate us for serving Jehovah.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The night before his death, Jesus assured his disciples that those who love him have the love of both him and his Father. With those words, he reminded them that even in the midst of trials, they have the support and approval of Jehovah and of Jesus.
In John 14:21, Jesus highlighted the close relationship between love for Christ and love for Jehovah. Knowing that we have the affection and approval of both gives us strength to endure any opposition. No amount of hatred can compare with the satisfaction of feeling loved by Jehovah and his Son.
The promise at 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8 helps us to keep our hope focused on the future. Jehovah will not forever allow injustice or persecution against his servants.
Meditating on the moment when justice and love fully reign comforts us and gives us the necessary courage to remain faithful while facing current difficulties.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
Why do people hate followers of Jesus?
People hate followers of Jesus for three main reasons. First, because we worship Jehovah. Furthermore, Satan, “the god of this system,” blinds people’s minds and influences them to oppose those who love God. Second, because we support Jesus and recognize his authority as King of God’s Kingdom, something many reject by putting their trust in human leaders. And third, because we reject Satan’s world, since we are not part of it and do not share his way of thinking, acting, or speaking.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because many do not truly know Jehovah or Jesus. They are influenced by Satan and reject the principles and authority of God’s Kingdom. Furthermore, true Christians do not become part of the world or get involved in political affairs, which often provokes opposition.
In what sense is our love stronger than hate?
Our love is stronger than hate in that love for Jehovah and for our brothers can help us overcome hate and remain faithful despite opposition. Jesus demonstrated that love to his very last breath, loving his Father and his friends. If we imitate that example and develop the same kind of love, we will be able to resist hate.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because love for Jehovah and for our brothers helps us to remain loyal, to forgive those who persecute us, and to support one another in difficult times. That love gives us the strength to respond to hatred with kindness and faithfulness.
Why can we be happy when we are hated?
We can be happy when we are hated because it shows that what the Bible foretold about God’s servants being persecuted is being fulfilled. Furthermore, we can be happy because love for Jehovah and for our brothers helps us to overcome hatred. We are also happy because opposition shows that we have God’s approval and that his spirit rests upon us.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because the hatred we endure confirms that Bible prophecies are being fulfilled, demonstrates that we have Jehovah’s approval, and allows us to show our loyalty to him. Furthermore, we have the assurance that Jehovah will help us now and eliminate all opposition in the future.
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