On Being Ashamed

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes….” (Romans 1: 16)

Needed in the Christian community today is good old fashioned HOLY BOLDNESS.

Cowering influences in our culture have unfortunately been very effective in muting many Christians into cultural conformity. With the salt and light taken out of culture the saving and illuminating influences are absent. Without their positive influence removed moral decay is unrestrained and rampant.

One of Satan’s most effective tools in quieting the voice of Christians is intimidation. No one likes to be criticized, put down, or falsely accused, so in order to avoid such acid many Christians have become silent. This leaves our culture without morality having representatives.

Jesus has always had His faithful remnant. These are loyalists who are true to Him while all around others falter. Their numbers have been dramatically diminished in recent times. The means in doing this is a tactic being used by numerous progressive groups. It is shame. Those who are still not ashamed have this charge brought against even more hostily. 

If you oppose Woke extremism you are bigoted and should be ashamed.

If you oppose sex other than between husband and wife you are a prude and should be ashamed.

If you are opposed to transgender procedures you are narrow-minded and should be ashamed.

If you oppose critical race theory you are a racist and should be ashamed.

If you don’t support the LGBTQ agenda you are homophobic and should be ashamed. 

Expect to be shamed if you stand for morality. The shield from shame is a quote from the Old Testament Book of Habakkuk found in the New Testament Book of Romans 1: 17, “The just shall live by faith.” It takes faith in the power of the gospel to stand when all around others are falling.

Confidence in the power of the gospel is the sure antidote for improper shame. The conviction that gospel truth is the basis of moral conduct results in holy boldness. 

Not only is the power of the gospel essential unto salvation of individual souls, it is also effective in the salvation of a culture from moral decay.

Paul did not look on those who opposed him with disdain, but he felt obligated to them. “I am under obligation [I am debtor] both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish.” (Romans 1: 14) There is an obligation to help opponents come to the truth. Stand and having done all, stand.