The Lord Jesus Christ warns us about the consequences of being ashamed of Him and His words. Couple that statement with the words of Jesus that the world hates Him, and that men love darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil, and you have a sure recipe for conflict.
We are living in a post-Christian era in America. We are living in an age where people are calling good evil, and evil good. As a Christian, we are called to be both salt and light in this fallen world system.
Beloved, I have good news for you today. It is possible to be a bold witness for Jesus without being obnoxious, condemning or self righteous. You see, whenever someone speaks out against the bible and what it says, the initial reaction is to counter attack, which indeed we should. However, our tendency is to react in the flesh, rather than respond in The Spirit.
But how should we counter attack? Peter tells us to be ready for share the hope that is in us. Paul tells us to have our feet shod with the gospel of peace. I am not saying that we should ever dodge speaking out on issues such as abortion, or sexual immorality, or creation. Never should we be silent or ashamed to say what Scripture teaches. But it is always wise to bring every discussion back to the gospel. Isn’t that what Jesus told us to do at the end of each gospel?
How freeing it is to know that God has not called us to be attorneys, but witnesses. Precious saints, God can handle the criticism, mockery, and rejection of His truth. He is not threatened in the least by mortal man’s attacks or unbelief. He has called us to unashamedly proclaim Him and His gospel, and let the proverbial chips fall where they may.
It is never right to speak God’s truth in an unloving or haughty way. So with a deep love for Christ, coupled with a sincere concern for those who are lost, live the gospel message today and speak the truth in love. Leave the results to God. Live what you believe, and believe what you live, and God will open those doors for you to testify about Him. It was grace that opened your eyes, and only grace can open the eyes of those you are talking too. Be lovingly unashamed.
Mark 8.38; John 3.18;7.7; Isa 5.20; 1 Peter 3.15; Rom 1.16,17; 10.
