Jesus entrusted us to spread the truth to every nation so that all can know who God is through him. This began with the twelve disciples in what we know as the ‘Great Commission.’ But this shouldn’t end with them – in fact this should continue even until after we have left this Earth. It is written that before the coming of Christ, the gospel will be spread to every nation (Mark 13:10). However, it is portrayed many times in the Bible that to stand up for what is the truth isn’t an easy task, especially in a world so clouded in darkness and evil.
Why should you care?
As Stephen was being stoned to death, he called out, “Lord Jesus, please welcome me!”
Acts 7:59
Stephen, a martyr of Christ, died professing the truth. Apostle Peter, a disciple specially chosen by Jesus, on whom the church began with, died as a follower of Christ. Lastly, Apostle Paul was a man specially chosen by Christ to teach and instruct Jews and Gentiles of the Word of God. In doing this, he wrote the majority of the New Testament. He conducted the works of the Lord despite the world telling him otherwise. Despite his life being in danger, he continued on proclaiming the truth He was called upon and believed in.
So why these examples? It is important for us to understand that many before us have stood for the gospel, even in the harshest of times. These people were prepared to put their reputation, even their lives aside so that we might know Christ and be saved. It is thus imperative for us as Christians to understand that there are people still awaiting the truth that do not yet know it. We, therefore, have a duty to stand up for the gospel even if it may cost us, acting selflessly so that others can live in the same joy we do. This way, as we continue to spread His word, we are able to bring new people under his adoption, through the Holy Spirit, into the salvation that he granted freely (Romans 8:15).
Take up your cross
They are not of this world, even as I am not of it.
John 17:16
Standing up for the Gospel irrespective of what the world throws at you is not an easy task. It will cost us to give up the world for the Word. It will cost us to be fully renewed by the Spirit and not be lukewarm in matters concerning the world. In an ever-changing modern society, most people speak and act to please others, however we must speak and act to please God alone. This may cause us to lose our reputation like those in the past did, being ‘cancelled’ for standing up for the truth. In the worst cases, it may even lead to the loss of our lives. However, we must understand that this is what Christ went through to ensure salvation was granted to us. We must thus pick up our cross’ and follow him – understanding that if we are to remain in Him, we are very likely to face the same adversities He faced by society, social media, even family and friends.
Through accepting Christ, we have allowed Him to enter our lives and transform us from within as new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17). However, we cannot accept him and still act like we are of this world. As John 17:16 says, we should act to be against the evil of this world, being careful not to accept things unacceptable to God.
Our hope is in the Lord
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Colossians 3:1-2
A key element in the Christian faith is our belief in the joy to come, and the reality of our hope in things above. Our joy lies in pleasing Christ and bringing people to the salvation He has offered, through the Holy Spirit. With this mindset, what is there to fear?
By remembering that this world is not the final destination, we can gain a new confidence that those of this world do not understand. This can help us stand up and profess the gospel with conviction – with nothing holding us back. If you ever get into a situation where you fear for standing up for the gospel, understand that Jesus ascended with the promise of preparing a place for you in Heaven. Stand firm in this and profess it with boldness. One day, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that He is God, even if now the world does not approve.