What does the Bible say about being hated for following Christ?

In John 15:16-21, Jesus explicitly tells His disciples that they will face hatred from the world because they are not of the world, having been chosen out of it by Him. This hatred reflects the world's animosity toward Christ Himself. The Christian is not above the master; if they persecuted Christ, they will also persecute His followers. The hatred from the world is a confirmation of one’s identity in Christ and stands in contrast to the acceptance one may experience from the world when conforming to its ways. Thus, a true believer can anticipate backlash for living a life that honors Christ and proclaims His gospel.