In a culture that is ironically becoming less tolerant in the name of tolerance, disciples of Jesus must remember He calls us to continue to speak His truth to a world floundering in deception. Our calling is not to espouse political opinions or to pontificate on economic policies. Our calling is to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and to bathe the world in His love (Matthew 28:18-20).
It’s not wrong to hold opinions about things outside of God’s Word. Having opinions is part of what makes us human. But when we saturate our speech with more political rhetoric than Godly truth, we are going too far and fighting battles the Lord does not intend for us to fight.
Our world needs hope. You don’t have to look very far to see that truth. We find genuine hope only in the redemptive work of Christ on the cross and His glorious resurrection. There is no hope outside of Jesus. Nothing lasts other than the love of our Lord. If we cease to speak His truth, how will the world hear of His love? How will they come to know His peace, mercy, and grace?
Paul instructed Timothy to always speak to please God, not men (I Thessalonians 2:4). Feeling pressure to keep your faith under wraps is not something new. Society has been trying to silence Christians since finding the tomb of Jesus empty over 2,000 years ago. The message of Christ threatens the order of things for those who do not know Him. The truth of the gospel threatens and intimidates because it forces people to recognize they will be accountable for the way they live.
It’s currently in vogue to “cancel” anyone who says anything against what some are pushing as societal norms. Be warned the cross of Christ is offensive. If you continue to spread the gospel and speak His truth, you are going to come against resistance and persecution. This should not frighten us because our God goes before us and is already fighting the battles on our behalf. He will give us the strength to stand against the trials and to persevere through them.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). There is no other way to God, Heaven, and eternal life other than surrendering our hearts and lives to Jesus. He alone can save. Our Lord is our strength and shield (Psalm 28:7). He will guard and protect us, and He will use our lives to bring glory to Him and further His mission on earth. We need only speak His truth. He’ll take care of the rest.
Don’t let the rulers of this world silence you. Trust Jesus and speak His truth. When the wolves of this world come for you—and they will!—don’t be afraid. Speak the name of Jesus. Show the world His love. Jesus did not back down when threatened. He pushed forward. We must all do the same. Don’t fear. Surrender to Jesus and speak His truth. Fulfill the great commission He gave to us and trust He will keep you until the end.