The man who is conformed to this world, who takes part in its politics, who shares its pleasures, who acts according to its principles, even though he bears the name of Christ, will not be ostracized, persecuted or hated by the world. The woman who is conformed to this world, who follows its fashions, who enjoys its company, who fights for its causes, will not be shunned by it. The world loves its own.
But those who walk in separation from the world, who follow a rejected Christ, will know something of what it means to enter into “the fellowship of His sufferings,” (Philippians 3:10). God has said, “yea and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:10). But let such a one remember and be cheered by the words of our Savior, “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you, when men revile you, and persecute you and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” (Matthew 5:10, 12).
