As soon as Christ gave sight to the man who was born blind, that man immediately became the object of the Jewish leaders' contempt and scorn. And thus we also become the objects of the world's hatred as soon as we are brought out of the darkness of our native corruption into the light of God's grace and truth. We cannot be partakers of divine light without likewise, in some measure, partaking of the sufferings of Christ and insofar as we follow Him, just that far shall we meet with the world's contempt. 

    The gift of faith that the Lord communicated to Abel resulted in his death at the hands of his brother Cain, who did not possess that faith. And Joseph's coat of many colors, which was a gift from his father, earned for him the hatred of his brethren. By the same token, if God sees fit to bestow special gifts upon us we should not be surprised if some of those who do not possess those same gifts are at lease somewhat resentful of our having them. As a result, we may very possibly become the objects of their contempt. Even some of our own kindred and brethren may treat us coolly and be jealous of the graces God has given us. Look at the sufferings the apostle Paul endured at the hands of his Jewish brethren as a direct result of the extraordinary gifts the Lord bestowed upon him. 

    The man who received his sight was immediately reviled and falsely accused by the Pharisees. And finally, as though they would pour upon him the ultimate charge of wretchedness, they accused him of being the disciple of Christ. Let each of us ask ourselves if we would qualify to have such an accusation brought against us. What greater honor could be bestowed upon us by an unfriendly world than to have it condemn us because of our efforts to follow in the footsteps of the meek and lowly Lamb of God? 

    Satan does not care how much religion we profess, just so long as we do not put Christ and His kingdom above all else. He will allow us all the external forms and empty religious rituals we may desire, just so long as we do not have the real substance of vital godliness. It is the humble, contrite, and faithful disciples of Christ that he detests, and it is against them that his strongest venom is directed.