Responding Like Jesus: Followers of Christ and the World

The relationship between followers of Jesus and the world has and will always be marked in stark contrast until His return. While the world often reacts to Christians with misunderstanding, opposition, hostility, and hate, Jesus calls His followers to respond with love, peace, and forgiveness. This difference is rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Himself, especially in the moments leading up to and following His crucifixion.

The World’s Reaction to Followers of Jesus

Jesus warned His disciples that the world would not always welcome them. In John 15:18-19, He said:

“If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.”

This warning underscores a reality that many Christians experience: people often resist or reject Jesus's message and lifestyle as they conflict with worldly values and priorities. The world may respond with hostility, anger, or misunderstanding, leaving many followers feeling isolated. Nonetheless, we find comfort in knowing that Jesus experienced similar rejection.

Followers of Jesus: Called to a Different Response

As followers of Jesus, we are called to a different response. Instead of retaliation or bitterness, we are to embody love, forgiveness, and peace. Let’s explore a couple of powerful examples that illustrate this.

Jesus’ Response to Peter at His Arrest

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was arrested. Peter, eager to defend Him, drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. Jesus’ response is telling:

“Put away your sword,” Jesus told him, “Those who use the sword will die by the sword.” (Matthew 26:52, NLT)

In Luke’s account, Jesus goes further and demonstrates His commitment to peace:

“But Jesus said, ‘No more of this!’ And he touched the man’s ear and healed him.” (Luke 22:51, NLT)

This encounter illustrates that Jesus understood His kingdom was not advanced by violence or force but by peace and healing—even toward those who come at us as enemies. Such responses prompt us to think: when faced with opposition, how do we embody the peace of Christ?

Jesus’ Words to His Disciples After the Crucifixion

After His resurrection, Jesus appears to His disciples, who are fearful and uncertain about the future. His first words to them are not of condemnation or revenge but of peace:

“That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! ‘Peace be with you,’ he said” (John 20:19, NLT).

He then commissions them to continue His work, affirming:

“Again, he said, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.’ Then he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone's sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven’” (John 20:21-23, NLT).

This important moment reveals Jesus’ intention for His followers. He empowers His disciples to be agents of peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation in a world that will not always understand or accept them.

Responding with Love and Forgiveness

When tragedies strike, whether violence occurs against a public figure, a friend, or even someone we admire from afar, feelings of anger and grief might overwhelm us. The Bible teaches, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back. In due time, their feet will slip. Their day of disaster will arrive, and their destiny will overtake them” (Deuteronomy 32:35).

For many followers of Jesus, these moments will test our faith and commitment to His teachings. The world often responds to such events with outrage and a call for vengeance. But Jesus calls us to something radically different.

Embracing Trust Over Retaliation

In tackling our natural impulses, we must remember that Jesus modeled the heart of true discipleship: to choose peace over retaliation, forgiveness over bitterness, and love over hate—even when it is hardest. It does not mean ignoring injustice or pretending that pain isn't real. Instead, true healing comes through the love and mercy Jesus displayed.

If you’re struggling with anger or grief after facing a tragedy, know that you’re not alone. Jesus experienced profound pain and injustice during His time on Earth. Yet, His life models a better path—one that leads to hope and healing for a broken world. It is a path that embodies the grace and compassion that followers of Jesus are called to extend, as demonstrated by how Charlie Kirk reflected these values in his life.

The Call to Reflect Jesus’ Character

As believers, we have an incredible opportunity to reflect Jesus' character in both our actions and our responses. Whether responding to hostility or misunderstanding, we must remember that our reactions can point others to the redemptive love of Christ. Here are a few practical steps on how we engage with a world that often misunderstands us:

• Practice Forgiveness: Daily remind yourself that forgiveness is not just for others; it is also about freeing yourself. Make it a habit to choose forgiveness over anger.

  
  

• Be a Peacemaker: Seek ways to be a peacemaker in conflicts or misunderstandings. Listen actively and be willing to understand the other side.

  
  

• Share the Message of Love: Make it your mission to share the message of Jesus through words and actions. Show kindness, even in moments when that seems most difficult.

  
  

These practical steps show that moving towards peace and love is possible, creating a transformative impact in the world around us.

The Path Forward: Trusting in God’s Justice

In moments of grief or outrage, it is essential to remember that we can entrust our pain to God. The Scriptures affirm, “Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God” (Romans 12:19). Understanding that God’s justice is greater than our own helps remind us that we do not need to carry the weight of revenge.

Choosing Jesus’ path of love and forgiveness does not mean we are passive in the face of injustice. Instead, it encourages us to respond actively, using our voices and actions to advocate for change in ways that align with Christ's teachings.

The Transformational Power of Love

When followers of Jesus respond to the world with love rather than hate, they can witness the extraordinary transformation of hearts. By embodying Christ’s character, we not only stand out but also attract others to explore the message of Jesus Christ.

Imagine a world where love prevails over division, where forgiveness replaces resentment, and where peace overtakes hostility. This vision is not only within reach but actualized when we commit to responding like Jesus.

In conclusion, the stark difference between how followers of Jesus respond to the world and how the world reacts to them is vital. As we navigate an often hostile environment, let us be steadfast in our commitment to conveying love and peace, modeling our lives after Jesus' astonishing example. By fully embracing our calling, we can position ourselves to make a lasting impact in a broken world, trusting that ultimately, love prevails.

Love in Christ

Stacey