May 10

"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake." — Luke 21:17.

IN the context our Lord foretells the destruction of Jerusalem, and endeavors to prepare the minds of his disciples for the perilous times that were approaching. The passage presents us with

A PROPHECT. This refers to the treatment they were to expect from the world — hatred.

The subjects. "Ye," that is, his disciples — those who refuse to serve Satan, and boldly acknowledge Christ as their Master; those who dare to be singular, and swim against the tide of evil; those who are dissatisfied with the world for their portion, and desire a better country.

The hatred. It is a dislike to their principles rather than their persons — and this is now shown in a thousand ways of private, petty persecution by individuals, who, if their power were equal to their inclination, would light afresh the fires of martyrdom, and fill the prisons and dungeons of our land with the faithful followers of Christ.

The agents. "All men," that is, those that are still at enmity with God; and is this matter of surprise? We do not wonder at the ferocity of the wolf to the lamb, or of the hawk to the dove? Why should we marvel then, if the world hate us?

The cause. "For my name's sake." Christians bear the name, and espouse the cause, of the Redeemer; and it is for this they are hated and opposed. They may be esteemed and beloved as friends and associates; but they are despised as the friends and companions of Christ. The smiles of his countenance will make amends for the world's frowns and the disapprobation of ungodly men. Let us therefore go forth to him without the camp, bearing his reproach.