“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” – Romans 1:16
“I wouldn’t say I am that religious.”
“Well, I don’t think that’s okay, but that’s just my opinion.”
“Some things can be right for me, and other ones right for you. It’s really okay either way.”
It is easy to dodge questions about morality, faith and Jesus. When people ask, it is easy to sugarcoat or censor myself, instead of boldly proclaiming my belief in Jesus. It is easier to tell people what they want to hear and avoid confrontation. This couldn’t be further from the way Paul calls us to act in Romans.
We are called to be bold and stand up for our faith! Paul preached Christ crucified and risen again⎯ why can’t we? If we truly believe that the Gospel is the power of God, we ought to proclaim it with courage.
I find the temptation to dodge questions about Christian faith typically is rooted in pride. We would rather preserve our earthly reputation instead of rest in how our heavenly Father sees us. When we think of the eternity we will spend with or without God, whose opinion of us really matters more? When we present “lukewarm” faith, unwilling to let it shine to those around us, we act ashamed of the Gospel.
The proper response to “Are you religious?” or “Are you Christian?” is not a sheepish “That’s what I believe.” Paul calls us to be unashamed of the Gospel. Respond with boldness, as a son or daughter of Christ. Be proud to have a Father who loves you, a Savior who died and rose again for your sake and a God who lives inside of you. It is far better to sacrifice the temporary approval of humanity so that we might receive God’s blessings for eternity.
Dear Lord, thank You for sending Your only Son to die and rise again for my sins. I want to be a bold follower of Jesus. Never let me forget that Your approval is forever, while the approval of my fellow men and women is only temporary. Help me to be unashamed of following You. In Jesus’s name we pray, amen.
Passage for Further Reading:
Romans 1:16-25
About the Author:
Louis is a first-year student at the University of Chicago planning to study economics and history. His preferred alternatives to studying are water polo, weightlifting, basketball, and hanging out with friends.
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