Stand Up And Be Bold

           

           I read an article recently asking the question “Where have all the bold Pastors gone?”  It’s a relevant question, really, but it doesn’t just apply to pastors. Our culture has changed dramatically from when our nation first became grounded.  We are now far removed from the our original roots.  The foundation of the United States was based on “electing” – a notion that comes from the Bible instead of the political arena – those ‘men’ who not only claimed a godly life, but lived one.

            Many of our controversial issues are actually moral ones; those like abortion and same sex marriages.  Our courts have ruled ‘a total tolerance’ attitude, and it seems ‘anything goes.’  There is an agenda to continue to push what has always been known as right and good, into something vile and ugly.  

            Where are those who would stand up and be bold against such horrible decisions which we’ve witnessed over the last several decades? It’s not just pastors who are responsible, it’s also we as Believers, in general.  

            When we think of ‘dissenters’ in Biblical times, we must consider Daniel, Moses and John the Baptist, and other prophets throughout Biblical history.  Daniel disagreed with the King’s decree and bowed only to the Most High God.  This could have cost him his life, but God closed the mouths of the lions, where he was thrown.   Moses went against the political head of the time; Pharaoh himself and he had to face him head on more than once!  And then John the Baptist went up against anyone who was not drawn to Christ, the Messiah, and this eventually, this cost him his life.  Ultimately, the greatest dissenter was Jesus!  He challenged everyone he met.  He described a total life change and further explained that the changes could only be attained through him.  What a radical idea!

            Isn’t Jesus supposed to be our perfect role model? How many of us, however, when we totally disagree with a political decision, are quick to share our ‘murmurs’ with those we know are like minded; but hesitate to voice an opinion and boldly stand our ground when we know we are going to be opposed?  We choose, therefore, to hold our opinions to ourselves or at best whisper it, rather than be willing to shout about the disgrace!

            A conversation between the late Dr. D. James Kennedy, pastor, evangelist, and author from Florida and author Jerry Newcombe, included the following comments. Dr. Kennedy asked the question:  'Do you think Christians should be involved in politics? That's dirty business.'   The response:   'Of course not, you should leave it to the atheists; otherwise, you wouldn't have anything to complain about.' 

The summation of the conversation in our current affairs: “Well, we have got plenty to complain about today, because that is exactly what we've done."

How bold are you when a discussion of moral issues arises?  Are you willing to risk your reputation, friendships, relationships, or even your life, if it came down to it?  

www.jerrynewcombe.com.

Publication date: March 12, 2012