David Wilkerson explains that Christians are hated by the world because they are chosen by Christ to bear lasting fruit and live apart from worldly values, fulfilling a mission that provokes persecution.
This sermon delves into the reasons why Christians are hated by the world, emphasizing the inevitability of persecution as Jesus foretold. The speaker urges believers to understand the depth of surrender to Christ's lordship and the mission to call others out of the world's ways. The message highlights the importance of preaching the full gospel, including repentance, life change, and the cross, even if it leads to being despised by the world.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Christians are hated because they are chosen by Christ
- The world hates Christians as it hated Jesus first
- True fruitfulness in ministry is lasting and impactful
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II
- Warning against false conversions and hypocrisy
- The danger of focusing on numbers over true spiritual growth
- The responsibility of ministers to preach convicting gospel
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III
- The spirit of mixture with the world infiltrating the church
- The Protestant Antichrist as the acceptance of worldly ways
- The church must remain distinct and not seek worldly approval
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IV
- Persecution is a mark of true Christian mission
- Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness' sake
- The mission includes confronting self-righteousness and worldly values
Key Quotes
“If the world hates you, you know it hated me before it hated you.” — David Wilkerson
“You're making converts, and you're preaching your gospel, but you are actually shutting the heavens and making your people two times over children of hell.” — David Wilkerson
“A church accepted by the world is an oxymoron.” — David Wilkerson
Application Points
- Expect persecution as a natural consequence of faithfully living out the Christian mission.
- Evaluate your own spiritual fruitfulness to ensure true conversion and lasting impact.
- Avoid conforming to worldly methods or seeking approval from society over obedience to Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the world hate Christians according to the sermon?
Because Christians are chosen by Christ and live by values opposed to the world, provoking hatred and persecution as Jesus experienced.
What is meant by 'twofold children of hell'?
It refers to those who appear converted but have not truly experienced transformation, thus being in greater danger of condemnation.
What is the Protestant Antichrist described in the sermon?
It is the spirit of worldly influence and mixture infiltrating the church, causing it to be loved and accepted by the world instead of persecuted.
How should ministers approach preaching according to Wilkerson?
They should preach with conviction and boldness, not softening the gospel to please people or gain numbers.
What is the true mission of the church?
To bear lasting fruit by evangelizing, making disciples, and confronting self-righteousness and sin in the world.
