Standing Up for Jesus in Today's Society
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing society, the challenge of standing up for Jesus Christ has become increasingly significant. Believers are faced with numerous trials, temptations, and societal pressures that can make it difficult to maintain and express their faith. However, it is in these very moments of challenge and adversity that our commitment to Christ must shine the brightest. This sermon aims to explore the importance of standing up for Jesus, the ways in which we can do so, and the Biblical foundation that guides us in this endeavour.
The Call to Stand Up for Jesus
The call to stand up for Jesus is a clear and recurring theme throughout the Bible. In Matthew 10:32-33 (AMP), Jesus Himself emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Him before others:
“Therefore, the one who confesses and acknowledges Me before men [as Lord and Savior, affirming a state of oneness with Me], that one I will also confess and acknowledge before My Father who is in heaven. But the one who denies and rejects Me before men, that one I will also deny and reject before My Father who is in heaven.”
This passage underscores the gravity of our public declaration of faith. Our acknowledgment of Jesus is not just a private matter but one that must be expressed openly, regardless of the potential consequences.
The Cost of Discipleship
Standing up for Jesus often comes with a cost. In Luke 9:23-24 (AMP), Jesus outlines the cost of discipleship:
“And He was saying to them all, ‘If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross daily [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me]. For whoever wishes to save his life [in this world] will [eventually] lose it [through death], but whoever loses his life [in this world] for My sake, he is the one who will save it [from the consequences of sin and separation from God].’”
This passage highlights the necessity of self-denial and the readiness to face persecution or hardship for the sake of Christ. In a world that often promotes self-interest and comfort, this call to take up our cross and follow Jesus daily can be challenging but profoundly rewarding.
The Example of Early Christians
The early Christians set a powerful example of standing up for Jesus despite severe persecution. Acts 4:18-20 (AMP) recounts the boldness of Peter and John before the Sanhedrin:
“So they summoned them and commanded them not to speak as His representatives or teach at all in the name of Jesus [using Him as their authority]. But Peter and John replied to them, ‘Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you and obey you rather than God, you must judge [for yourselves]; for we, on our part, cannot stop telling [people] about what we have seen and heard.’”
Peter and John’s unwavering commitment to preaching the gospel, even in the face of threats, serves as an inspiration for all believers. Their example encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith and proclamation of Jesus, regardless of societal pressures or opposition.
Practical Ways to Stand Up for Jesus
- Live a Life of Integrity and Holiness
1 Peter 1:15-16 (AMP) calls us to live holy lives: “But like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves in all your conduct [be set apart from the world by your Godly character and moral courage]; because it is written, ‘You shall be holy (set apart), for I am holy.’”
Our conduct should reflect the character of Christ. By living with integrity and moral courage, we demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel and stand out as witnesses of Jesus in a world that often lacks these qualities.
- Share the Gospel Boldly
Romans 1:16 (AMP) declares the power of the gospel: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation [from His wrath and punishment] to everyone who believes [in Christ as Savior], to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”
Sharing the gospel is a fundamental way to stand up for Jesus. Whether through personal conversations, social media, or public speaking, we must boldly proclaim the message of salvation through Christ.
- Engage in Acts of Love and Service
John 13:34-35 (AMP) records Jesus’ commandment: “I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.”
Our love and service to others are tangible expressions of our faith. By meeting the needs of those around us and showing compassion, we embody the love of Christ and stand up for Him in a practical way.
- Defend the Faith with Gentleness and Respect
1 Peter 3:15 (AMP) instructs us on how to defend our faith: “But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy—acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect.”
When engaging in discussions or debates about our faith, it is crucial to do so with gentleness and respect. This approach not only honours Christ but also opens the door for meaningful dialogue and potential transformation in the hearts of others.
Overcoming Fear and Doubt
Fear and doubt can hinder our efforts to stand up for Jesus. However, the Bible provides numerous reassurances of God’s presence and support in these moments.
Isaiah 41:10 (AMP) offers comfort: “Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].”
Additionally, Philippians 4:13 (AMP) reminds us of our strength in Christ: “I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace].”
By relying on God’s promises and His strength, we can overcome fear and doubt, enabling us to stand up for Jesus with confidence and courage.
The Role of Prayer and the Holy Spirit
Prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit are essential in our journey of standing up for Jesus. Ephesians 6:18 (AMP) emphasizes the importance of prayer: “With all prayer and petition pray [with specific requests] at all times [on every occasion and in every season] in the Spirit, and with this in view, stay alert with all perseverance and petition [interceding in prayer] for all God’s people.”
Furthermore, Acts 1:8 (AMP) highlights the empowering role of the Holy Spirit: “But you will receive power and ability when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be My witnesses [to tell people about Me] both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the ends of the earth.”
Through consistent prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit, we gain the strength, wisdom, and boldness needed to effectively stand up for Jesus.
Standing up for Jesus in today’s society is both a privilege and a responsibility. It requires us to live with integrity, share the gospel boldly, engage in acts of love and service, and defend our faith with gentleness and respect. Despite the challenges we may face, we are reassured by God’s promises and empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfil this calling.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember the words of Jesus in John 16:33 (AMP): “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.”
May we, as followers of Christ, rise to the occasion and stand up for Jesus with unwavering faith and courage, impacting our world for His glory.
