What does the Bible say about being hated for Christ's sake?

In John 15:18-20, Jesus warns His disciples that if the world hates them, it is because it hated Him first. This hatred stems from the enmity that resides in the hearts of those who are dead in their sins and do not know God. Believers, being united to Christ, will inevitably experience hostility because they embody His message and image, which condemns the world. The apostle Paul further confirms this reality when he writes that all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). Thus, knowing this truth prepares Christians to endure trials with the understanding that they are following in the footsteps of their Savior, who endured much for their sake.