Skip to main content

On Overcoming Christian Shame: Standing Boldly for the Gospel

Since its earliest days, Christianity has been the object of ridicule and debate. The actions of those who called themselves Christians did not help with the world’s view of Christianity. History tells us of the Inquisition and past religious corruption all in the name of Christianity.

Today, we see this trend of those associated with Christianity misrepresenting the name of Christ. Because of this, many are ashamed to call themselves Christians because of negative perceptions. Are you committed to Christ and willing to be identified with the faith? However, Christians have to take the same sentiment as Paul.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16 (KJV)

Christians have been accused of being hypocrites, bible thumpers, spiritual elitists, and the like. However, anyone that is a true Christian understands these things not to be true. True Christians do not hate the Jews or any other religious group.

True Christians do not hate individuals involved in alternative lifestyles or those who engage in practices deemed immoral by the Bible. Christians, however, do understand that God loved man enough to provide salvation from their sins (in all its forms).

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Though some ‘Christians’ misrepresent the faith, we cannot back down from the truth: There is sin in the world. God does oppose sins. He offers forgiveness and deliverance from sin through Christ.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (KJV)

In addition, those that come to Him must reflect Him in their lives; demonstrating His love and character. Please do not be ashamed of God and your relationship with Him though Christ. Stay committed. Why? He is not ashamed of you. He has loved you unconditionally. He will be with you always.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

On Defending the Faith (Post 2): The Mindset of Christian Apologetics

Relativism is an established doctrine of today's society. Though there are those who hold to traditional values with respect to culture and religion, the global trend is to promote the idea of "personal truth." This means that what is true for one, may not be true for another: just live out your own truth. Because of this prevailing attitude toward faith and spirituality, the Christian must be spiritually and mentally prepared to engage in apologetics. The Christian must have the proper mindset while standing in defense of the faith. Continuing our examination of I Peter 3:15-16, we find that Peter gives us the proper mindset needed for effective apologetics. "...but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you..." (I Peter 3:15a)         As opposed to the generalized theism presented in society, the Christian has to have a passionate, unwavering fear, reveren...
Post a Comment
Read more

On Defending the Faith (Post 1): The Mandate of Christian Apologetics

What is truth? This question posed by Pilate to Jesus has challenged philosophers, thinkers, and theologians. However (like Pilate who walked away after his inquiry) many who claim they are in search of truth, really have no interest in finding "truth" because it will demand a lifestyle response. Therefore, many make truth elusive, especially where the divine is concerned, so no ultimate commitment or rejection is required due to glorified agnosticism. Though there have been distortions of the Christian faith, doctrine, and practice, the core truth claims of Christianity remain. The Christian, today, has to be willing to stand on the faith and have the proper approach, appeal, and apparatus to defend the faith. This post is the beginning of a three part series concerning Christian apologetics. When individuals hear the word apologetics, they oftentimes feel this is reserved for a special class of Christians who are well versed, educated, and hold some sort of ecclesiastical a...
Post a Comment
Read more