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"I am not ashamed of the Gospel" (Romans 1:16). I, for one, would like o quickly assert that I am right there with Paul. The Greek word used for "ashamed" is epaischynomai and means to feel shame or dishonor. But, what is it that Paul was not ashamed of? Obviously, he was not ashamed of the name of Jesus, but he doesn't say, "I am not ashamed of Jesus." He said he was not ashamed of the Gospel. How many times do we shy away from the Gospel? How many times are we embarrassed by the Gospel? How many times do we feel that the Gospel dishonors our reputation. The Gospel is not politically correct, and that is the unforgivable sin in our society.
I have great respect for Billy Graham. Because of my respect for him I was a bit taken off guard when he was on Larry King and basically did the same thing Joel Osteen (who I do not respect) did. Both men were asked point blank if they believe people who do not believe in Jesus (Muslims, Jews, etc.) will not go to heaven. While Dr. Graham answered better than Joel Osteen, both men opted for a politically correct answer by saying, "That's not for me to say." Well, in a sense they are correct. But it is for us to say that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life and no one comes to the Father but by Him.
I will never be interviewed by Larry King. But how many times do I respond the same way in different circumstances? When Thanksgiving dinner conversations turn to things of God and there is unbiblical things being put forth - do I keep my mouth shut for the sake of not making things tense or do I speak the truth in love?
I am not saying we should never practice tact and be sensitive. I am just wondering how many times my true motives for silence have more to do with protecting how people think of me. Do ever view the Gospel as a threat to my honor? Are there moments when associating with the Gospel is a cause for embarrassment?
Lord, I want the heart of Paul. May I never be ashamed.
1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel: it is the power of God for salvation to every one who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. |
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