Rejected by the World for our Faith

[Offline4Better.]

Hello folks. Today, we will be covering rejection, as many Christians may be rejected by society for their unwavering faith in Christ.

This is a companion post to: Christian Figures who were Rejected for their Faith

Date​	May 27, 2024 | Rejected for our Faith​
Verse​	John 5:18-19 (NIV): "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you." 1 Peter 2:4-5 (NIV): "As you come to Him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him—you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." Psalm 34:17-18 (NIV): "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 118:22 (NIV): "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone."​
Explanation​	John 5:18-19: These verses speak to the reality that as followers of Jesus, we may experience rejection or hatred from the world because we belong to Him. Jesus, who was hated and rejected by the world, reminds us that this is to be expected. He chose us out of the world, setting us apart for His purpose, which may not align with the world's values or desires. ​ 1 Peter 2:4-5: In these verses, we find encouragement in our identity as chosen and precious children of God. Despite being rejected by humans, we are valuable in God's eyes and are being built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to Him. Psalm 34:17-18: In this passage, we see the comfort and assurance that God hears the cries of the righteous and delivers them from their troubles. Those who are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit can find solace in knowing that God is close and saves those who turn to Him. Psalm 118:22: This verse speaks of the unexpected nature of God's choice. The stone that was rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone. It serves as a reminder that God can use us in ways we may not anticipate or even desire, and that our rejection by the world can ultimately be a part of God's greater plan. One example of a Christian historical figure who was rejected by the world to fulfill God's mission was Martin Luther King Jr., a civil rights leader and Baptist minister, who experienced rejection and fulfilled God's mission despite facing obstacles during the 1960s. Throughout his career, King advocated for racial equality and social justice through nonviolent means, inspiring millions of people around the world. However, King also faced fierce opposition from those who opposed his message of unity and equality. He received numerous death threats, was arrested multiple times, and ultimately assassinated at the age of 39. Despite these challenges, King remained committed to his cause and believed that he was carrying out God's will. In his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, he declared, "With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood."
Societal Relevance​	Methods Christians can do in modern society to get over our fear of rejection by others include: Focusing on our identity in Christ: Remind yourself of your worth and value as a child of God. Praying for strength and courage: Seek God's help in facing rejection and fear. Building a supportive community: Connect with others who share your faith and values. Practicing forgiveness and kindness: Offer forgiveness to those who reject or hurt you, and extend kindness to those around you. Trusting in God's plan: Believe that God has a purpose for your life, even if it includes rejection or suffering. Living out your faith authentically: Be true to your beliefs and values, even when it may bring rejection from the world. Refusing to compare yourself to others: Avoid comparing yourself to others and focus on your unique journey with God. Seeking wisdom and guidance: Turn to God and seek the wisdom and guidance you need to navigate difficult situations.