“Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters, if the world hates you.” – 1 John 3:13

Rejection isn’t a possibility, it’s a promise. It’s a fact that everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). Jesus himself was rejected by his very own people, even after Isaiah had prophesied that they would not receive him. Have we realized that the Bible we read today was written directly by men harshly rejected by the people of their time?

When someone asks the question: "What if they reject me?" - it reveals the presence of a fear of man and an unbiblical concept of evangelism. As Christians, our calling is not based on the response we receive but on our obedience to God's command to share the Gospel with the world. We must abandon our fear and cling to the truth that God's Word will not return empty; it will accomplish His purposes, regardless of how it is received by others.

Jesus experienced rejection throughout the entire course of His earthly ministry. He is the stumbling stone (Isaiah 8:14), and His message divides people (Luke 12:51). As His followers, we can expect similar responses. Instead of being disheartened, we should respond as Jesus did—standing firm in His light and truth, unwavering in the face of the world's fickleness.

In Matthew Chapters 4 and 5, Jesus purposefully ventured into the land of Zebulun and Naphtali, marked by darkness, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 9:1-2). His intentional choice serves as a powerful lesson for us as we share the Gospel.

Often, we may feel drawn to places where the gospel is readily received, but Jesus shows a different approach by going exactly where the Father willed, regardless of climate or culture of the people. Likewise, we are called to carry Christ's light to those unreached and even resistant to the gospel. Though we may encounter opposition, let us stand firm in love and truth, being encouraged that our light can be a beacon, drawing others out of darkness into Christ's marvelous light. When in the face of darkness and rejection it is love, compassion, and perseverance that break barriers, revealing the transformative power of the Gospel.

Following Jesus' example, seek out those most in need of the Gospel. As we reflect His light in the darkest corners, we become ambassadors of love and reconciliation.

Just as Isaiah prophesied, darkness witnesses a great light - the love and truth of Jesus shining through us. In a world longing for hope, let us boldly share the Gospel and illuminate hearts yearning for salvation.

Our motivation for evangelism should stem from a heart compelled by the love of Christ. We are called to follow Jesus' example, fulfilling the ministry of reconciliation. As we obey His command to share the gospel, we must rid ourselves of the fear of man and seek to fear God. As we recognize his sovereignty and power, let us surrender our selfish tendencies to a life of obedience and consecration to the Lord.