Jn 15:18-21
World: “World” is used in John’s Gospel with a variety of meanings. In the first place it means the cosmos that was created by God. It is the totality of God’s creation: all things were created through the eternal Word in the beginning. And Jesus can assert that the Father’s love for him was “before the foundation of the world” (Jn 17:24). It may also refer to the world of humanity, as when Jesus claims, “I am the light of the world” (Jn 8:12) or when he declares to Nicodemus, “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life” (Jn 3:16).
World: “World” is used in John’s Gospel with a variety of meanings. In the first place it means the cosmos that was created by God. It is the totality of God’s creation: all things were created through the eternal Word in the beginning. And Jesus can assert that the Father’s love for him was “before the foundation of the world” (Jn 17:24). It may also refer to the world of humanity, as when Jesus claims, “I am the light of the world” (Jn 8:12) or when he declares to Nicodemus, “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life” (Jn 3:16).
The world may also stand for people at enmity with God, those who oppose God’s will and purpose. This world, though created through the Word, is ruled by the prince of the world. This world is “below” in contrast with the world “above,” it is of darkness in contrast with the world of light. It does not receive Jesus, the emissary from above.
The “world” in today’s gospel refers to people who do not accept Jesus (Jn 1:11). Jesus is the target of their opposition and he will fall victim to their hostility. In his absence, the world’s hatred will be directed to his associates and friends. Jesus urges his followers to love one another. If love is the distinguishing mark of the disciples, then hatred characterizes the world’s response to Jesus’ followers.