Are you Ashamed of the Gospel? Do not say “no” too quickly!

I am debtor [I am obligated] both to Greeks and to foreigners, both to the wise and to the foolish. So, as much as is in me, I am eager to preach the Good News to you also who are in Rome. For I am not ashamed of the Good News of Christ, for it is the power of God for salvation for everyone who believes; for the Jew first, and also for the Greek. For in it is revealed God’s righteousness from faith to faith. As it is written, “But the righteous shall live by faith.”                          Romans 1:14-17 (WEB)

Last night I went to worship the Lord. I went to a “U2CHARIST”. I watched young men and women put themselves “out there” to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a forum that was intended – not for me who is already a disciple – as a lure to catch the fish that would not normally come. I am not a U2 fan. Except for a passing knowledge of one song that was featured in the movie, “Runaway Bride”, I had never heard any of the songs. However, it took no stretch to read lyrics that directly point to Jesus Christ.

Paul said he was obligated to share the gospel with all. He made no distinction on the who and was willing to go wherever he was sent! Paul was an elitist before he met Jesus. He thought knowledge of God would come only to those who were good enough and chosen by God by their birthright and earthly blessings of wealth and status. Jesus corrected that by going to those who were unclean and unwanted by those in the church. Paul spoke his personal revelation with the words that all had fallen short of God’s glory. And so Paul, Martin Luther, John Wesley, and those who follow Jesus put themselves out there with no safety net to draw all to Jesus Christ.

There will be criticism that is meant to wound, distract, and discourage those who are willing to present the Good News of Jesus Christ in a personal way, meeting people where they are. But for those who are willing to go where God opens the opportunities and learn to be “fishers of men” as Jesus teaches, the blessings of seeing the Light of the knowledge of Jesus come into a world of darkness is an experience not to be missed! Be Bold! Be Brave! Step out of your comfort zone and follow Jesus!