John 15:19 If you were of the world, the world would love his own: but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world… I. THE PEDIGREE OF TRUE MEN. 1. They were once in the world. That world is characterized by — (1) Practical athiesm. They who make it up are without God, if not avowedly, at least in spirit, conduct and aim. (2) Imperial materialism. They have no practical recognition of a spiritual universe, relationship, obligation. They walk after the flesh, and seek their happiness, wealth, dignity in earthly things. (3) Dominant selfishness. Each one is governed by selfish interests. These are the goal towards which their steps are directed; the idol they worship. 2. They have been brought out of the world by Christ. No one but Christ can bring men out of such a state. Philosophy, civilization, natural religion are powerless. Christ penetrates men with the idea of the true God. He draws the curtain of materialism and reveals the spiritual world. He destroys selfishness and constrains men with His own love. This work is represented by an emancipation, regeneration, resurrection, creation — and none of these words are too strong. II. THE POSITION OF TRUE MEN. They are rendered repugnant to the world by Christ. 1. The hatred of the world to true men is of the same kind as that which Christ experienced. The forms of persecution change, but the spirit remains. If it is prevented from mangling the body, it will mangle the reputation. 2. Then hatred is for the same reason. The world hated Christ because — (1) His purity condemned their depravity. (2) His benevolence their selfishness. (3) His humility their pride. (4) His truth their prejudices. (5) His spirituality their carnal pleasures. For these reasons now the world hates true men. (D. Thomas, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. |
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