Introduction
In today's world, where secularism seems to be on the rise and religious beliefs are increasingly marginalized, standing up for Jesus has never been more crucial.
The pressures to conform to worldly standards can be overwhelming, but as followers of Christ, we are called to stand firm in our faith, to be salt and light in a world that often rejects the truth of the Gospel.
Today, brothers and sisters in Christ, we will explore why standing up for Jesus is essential, the challenges we face in an increasingly secular society, and how we can courageously live out our faith in a way that honors God.
I. The Call to Stand Up for Jesus
Standing up for Jesus is not just a suggestion; it is a command. In Matthew 10:32-33, Jesus said, "Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven."
These words are a sobering reminder of the importance of professing our faith openly and boldly.
To stand up for Jesus means to live in a way that reflects His teachings and to speak out about our faith even when it is unpopular or difficult.
The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 6:13, encourages believers to "put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."
Christian life is a battle, this passage reminds us, where each one is required to be fully equipped and ready to stand firm in our faith.
II. The Challenges of a Secular World
Today's society is increasingly secular and the challenges to our faith are manifold.
We live in a world where the pursuit of personal happiness, material wealth, and self-fulfillment often takes precedence over spiritual growth and obedience to God.
Secularism promotes a worldview that is often in direct opposition to Christian values, emphasizing moral relativism, where truth is subjective and each individual determines what is right or wrong for themselves.
One of the most significant challenges we face is the pressure to conform. The Apostle Paul warned against this in Romans 12:2, saying, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
The world encourages us to fit in, to adopt its values, and to live according to its standards.
However, as Christians, we are called to be different, to be set apart, and to live according to the standards of God's Word.
Another challenge is the increasing hostility towards Christianity.
Whether it is in the workplace, in schools, or in the public square, expressing Christian beliefs can lead to criticism, ostracism, or even persecution.
In John 15:18-19, Jesus reminds us, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you."
As followers of Christ, we should not be surprised when we face opposition. We should see it rather as a confirmation of our identity in Him.
III. The Importance of Boldness and Courage
Standing up for Jesus requires boldness and courage.
In the book of Acts, we see countless examples of the early Christians who, despite facing severe persecution, boldly proclaimed the Gospel.
One such example is Peter and John, who, when commanded by the authorities to stop preaching about Jesus, replied, "Which is right in God's eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:19-20).
Their unwavering commitment to Jesus serves as an inspiration for us today.
Courage in the face of opposition is not something that comes naturally to most of us. It is something that must be cultivated through prayer, the study of God's Word, and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7, "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline."
We have a powerful reminder in this verse that God has equipped us with everything we need to stand up for Him, even in the most challenging circumstances.
IV. Practical Ways to Stand Up for Jesus
Standing up for Jesus in a secular world is not just about what we say, but also about how we live.
Here are a few practical ways we can stand up for our faith:
1. Live with Integrity
Our lives should be a reflection of our faith. We should strive to live in a way that honors God, adhering to biblical principles in every area of our lives. This requires us to be honest, loving, and compassionate, even when it is difficult.
2. Speak the Truth in Love
While it is important to stand up for our beliefs, it is equally important to do so with love and respect. Ephesians 4:15 encourages us to "speak the truth in love."
We should aim to share the Gospel and our convictions in a way that draws others to Christ, rather than pushing them away.
3. Be Prepared to Give an Answer
1 Peter 3:15 instructs us to "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."
We should be ready to explain our faith and the reasons behind our beliefs, not in a combative manner, but with gentleness and respect.
4. Support and Encourage Fellow Believers
Standing up for Jesus is not something we are meant to do alone. We need the support and encouragement of other believers.
Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another."
Staying connected to a community of faith can strengthen one another and stand firm together.
Conclusion
Standing up for Jesus in an increasingly secular world is both a privilege and a responsibility.
It requires us to be bold, courageous, and unwavering in our commitment to Christ.
The challenges are great, the reward is even greater knowing that we are living in a way that honors God and that we are playing a part in advancing His Kingdom.
As we leave here today, let us remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:14-16: "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Brethren, let us be that light, shining brightly in a world that desperately needs the hope and truth of Jesus Christ. Amen.
