Unpopular

I watched a brief interview with a very popular political leader.  He was asked, “How do you manage to captivate the hearts of so many?” “How does your campaign accomplish such marginal wins against your opponents?”

His response surprised me.  

“From the start, we never sought popularity,” he said.  

“We never adjusted our message to please the polls. In fact, we still never look at the polls.  We always stick to our mission, regardless of what popular opinion demands. Thus, over time, we have earned the trust of our patriots.” (paraphrased)

 

I was reminded of how Jesus began his ministry here on earth.  When he spoke, he never sought popularity.  In fact, he often said things that made him unpopular.  His messages didn’t always sit well and please crowds.  

 

When many of His disciples heard this, they said, “This is a difficult and harsh and offensive statement. Who can [be expected to] listen to it?” (John 6:60 Am.)…

… From then on, many of His disciples turned back and no longer walked with Him. (John 6:66 Am.)…

 

But that never bothered him because he was not after people's approval.   He was only after the approval of God.  (John 8:29)

In the same way, speaking and standing for truth will not immediately earn you followers.  

Just as Jesus was rejected and ridiculed by many, so will the journey of his disciples.  Be prepared to be opposed and unpopular when called to do God's work.

 

Remember this: Servants don’t get better treatment than their masters. If they beat on me, they will certainly beat on you. If they did what I told them, they will do what you tell them. (John 15:20 MSG)

Notice, first opposed, then accepted. 

 

“I'd rather be booed by people and please God than please people and be booed by God” - Tim Delena. 

 

"All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident."

Arthur Schopenhauer

 

 "Opportunity plus opposition equals God's will" - Rick Warren.

 

Supporting Text

 

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Ga. 1:10)

…for I always do the things that are pleasing to him. (John 8:29)

In fact, anyone who belongs to Christ Jesus and wants to live right will have trouble from others. (2 Ti. 3:12)