1 John 3:13
Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
The Johannine community experienced persecution from multiple sources. Jewish Christians faced exclusion from synagogues (John 9:22, 16:2). All Christians faced periodic Roman persecution, especially under emperors like Nero (mid-60s AD) and Domitian (late 90s AD). Social ostracism, economic boycotts, and martyrdom were real threats.
The early church's expectation of persecution differed markedly from some modern Western Christianity that expects worldly acceptance. First-century believers understood that following Christ meant bearing a cross, facing opposition, and sometimes dying for faith. This verse provided realistic preparation and theological framework—you're not being treated unjustly when the world hates you; you're sharing Christ's treatment. This is normal Christian experience.
Questions for Reflection
- How should the expectation of worldly hatred shape your response when you face opposition for Christian faith or practice?
- What's the difference between persecution for righteousness's sake and suffering due to your own foolishness or lack of wisdom?
- If you currently experience no opposition from the world, does this indicate commendable wisdom or concerning compromise?
Analysis & Commentary
Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. Following the Cain example, John addresses the reality of worldly hatred toward believers. "Marvel not" (mē thaumazete) commands believers not to be surprised or shocked. The present imperative indicates a continuous attitude—never be amazed when this occurs. The term "my brethren" (adelphoi mou) expresses affectionate connection while introducing the subject of brotherly relationships.
"If the world hate you" (ei misei hymas ho kosmos)—the conditional "if" doesn't express doubt but assumes reality ("since the world hates you"). Kosmos (κόσμος) here means the world system organized in rebellion against God, not the physical world or all people. The present tense "hate" indicates ongoing, continuous hatred. This hatred is inevitable and systemic, rooted in the same dynamic that motivated Cain's hatred—the righteous life exposes and condemns wickedness.
Jesus warned His disciples, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you" (John 15:18). The world hated Christ because His righteous life and truthful teaching condemned its sin. Believers united to Christ share His experience. Rather than being discouraged by opposition, Christians should recognize it as confirmation they belong to Christ. The absence of any worldly opposition might indicate dangerous compromise or cultural Christianity lacking distinctiveness.