Sunday, September 14, 2008

Jesus Be Offense

The gospel is not accepted all over the world. There are nations that prohibit its citizens from practicing Christianity or proclaiming Christ as Lord and Savior. On a smaller scale, there are churches and public venues that will not receive dance ministry as an acceptable format. When we are disciples of the gospel, then we must also face the rejection that comes along with the territory.

We do not set out to offend anyone with our witness. The fact is that there will be people who are offended by the name of Jesus. We must not yield to the temptation to tone down the message for the sake of opportunity. Those of us who win souls are wise. When we are sent to a people, it is obedience to the assignment that brings glory to the Lord, whether or not the message (or the messenger) is received.

Acceptance of the miracles and the trials will allow us to weather the storms of ministry. If we operate under false pretenses, we will be easily shaken when we are rejected by men. Knowing that ministry may challenge our friendships, family relationships, and need for acceptance will allow us to tune out the applause of man and receive the Lord's seal of approval.

Matthew 13:57 (NKJV)
So they were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.”

John 6:61 (NKJV)
When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples complained about this, He said to them, “Does this offend you?"

1 Thessalonians 2:4 (NKJV)
But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.

Galatians 1:10 (NKJV)
For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.

No comments: