July 1, 2015
It’s a searching question often seen on bumper stickers in times past: “If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?”
There was a reality check in this question for the apostle Paul. He really WAS arrested and on trial for being a Christian. Specifically, he summarized the essence of the trial before the high court of the land with these words: “I am standing trial for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers” (Acts 26.6). He further stated, "I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, stating nothing but what the Prophets and Moses said was going to take place; that the Christ was to suffer, and that by reason of His resurrection from the dead He would be the first to proclaim light both to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles." (Acts 26:22-23)
Paul dared resolutely believe in Christ’s resurrection, and believer’s resurrection through Him. These were non-negotiables with him; worth living and dying for. This hope was basis for his prime mission: “to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith" (Acts 26:18).
It appears that we are entering a new era in this culture. For some time now we have heard that we live in a post-modern, post-Christian world. This seems abundantly evident. It cannot be assumed that society, in general, embraces or even tolerates beliefs we hold dear. More than ever, we must clearly see and focus on biblical truth and priorities. We must truly know what we believe, be ready to give a defense of these, and compassionately and diplomatically appeal to our society.
Being arrested and tested for our faith has always been a real possibility, but perhaps even more so these days. This ought not to invoke a sense of dread, but rather call us to more carefully consider belief and lifestyle and our role as salt and light in an ever darkening world.
Resurrection matters. The kingdom of God matters. The Great Commission matters. Cultural climate adds emphasis to what truly matters, and what the people of God must be about. May we be especially wise these days about non-negotiable truth, its impact on our lifestyle, and our priorities as this present age draws to a close.
Steve
©Steve Taylor, 2015
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/
Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
paperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
There was a reality check in this question for the apostle Paul. He really WAS arrested and on trial for being a Christian. Specifically, he summarized the essence of the trial before the high court of the land with these words: “I am standing trial for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers” (Acts 26.6). He further stated, "I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, stating nothing but what the Prophets and Moses said was going to take place; that the Christ was to suffer, and that by reason of His resurrection from the dead He would be the first to proclaim light both to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles." (Acts 26:22-23)
Paul dared resolutely believe in Christ’s resurrection, and believer’s resurrection through Him. These were non-negotiables with him; worth living and dying for. This hope was basis for his prime mission: “to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith" (Acts 26:18).
It appears that we are entering a new era in this culture. For some time now we have heard that we live in a post-modern, post-Christian world. This seems abundantly evident. It cannot be assumed that society, in general, embraces or even tolerates beliefs we hold dear. More than ever, we must clearly see and focus on biblical truth and priorities. We must truly know what we believe, be ready to give a defense of these, and compassionately and diplomatically appeal to our society.
Being arrested and tested for our faith has always been a real possibility, but perhaps even more so these days. This ought not to invoke a sense of dread, but rather call us to more carefully consider belief and lifestyle and our role as salt and light in an ever darkening world.
Resurrection matters. The kingdom of God matters. The Great Commission matters. Cultural climate adds emphasis to what truly matters, and what the people of God must be about. May we be especially wise these days about non-negotiable truth, its impact on our lifestyle, and our priorities as this present age draws to a close.
Steve
©Steve Taylor, 2015
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/
Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
paperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
posted by steve @ 9:04 AM
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