Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 15:20

"Remember the word that I said unto you, A servant is not greater than his lord. If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also." — John 15:20 (ASV)

Jesus’ choice of the disciples has set them apart for a different kind of life and for a different purpose. Therefore, the world will exclude them. Jesus’ choice is also the guarantee that the lives of his disciples will have permanent value, but it does not guarantee immunity from attack. Jesus can promise them nothing more than what he himself had received (cf. 13:16).