Canceled: I'm Afraid to Talk About Jesus
The age of civil discourse has seemingly passed us by. Now, shouting matches and name calling are common byproducts of disagreements.
Are Christians excused from sharing their faith with others out of the fear of being canceled? Are we to keep silent, holding the only message of hope and reconciliation to ourselves?
The answer is no. We are called to be vocal concerning our faith, rather than silent and indifferent.
How can we find the courage to speak out when our very reputations are at risk? It begins with prayer.
Acts 4:29-32 addresses this very issue. The early Christians prayed, “…now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant it to Your bondservants to speak Your word with all confidence… and when they had prayed…and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness” (NASB).
The early followers of Jesus demonstrated the power of prayer. Trusting Christ to hear and strengthen us is where boldness begins.
Apart from the Lord, we will cower and falter. However, all things are possible with Him (Philippians 4:13).
When confronting people with the truth of the gospel, do so with gentleness and compassion. Approach people in the love of Christ rather than as if they were an enemy (Ephesians 6:12).
Have a teachable spirit when introducing people to Jesus and answer any questions that they might have. Do not approach witnessing as a drive-by event.
Sometimes, we must share the gospel in a limited amount of time, and that is ok. However, if you are not rushed, then don’t rush the conversation.
Help people to see that you are approaching them in love. You are not condescending or spiteful.
Some people will not give you the time of day because they are predisposed to hate the things of God (John 15:18). However, many people, whether they agree with you or not, will appreciate the fact that you care for them enough to share.
Sure, you might be “canceled” in this life, but you are living for Christ, and you will be rewarded in Heaven (2 Corinthians 5:10). Can you imagine which is greater, earthly riches (wealth, social status, respect) or eternal ones?
Matthew 6:19-21 encourages, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (NASB).
In Christ, we are already rewarded with eternal life and the promise of Heaven. In addition to this, we will receive rewards because of living for Christ.
Also, we will be able to lead others to eternal life in Christ if we are bold and faithful. How great will it be to see individuals in Heaven who you had the opportunity to introduce to Christ?
When sharing your faith, use the Word of God. It will not return void (Isaiah 55:11).
Also, share your testimony with others. Your relationship with God and His work in your life are irrefutable!
People will hear what God has done in your life and long for the same. Do not keep the good news to yourself.
The fear of being canceled does not compare to the fear of the Lord. Acts 5:29 states, “We must obey God rather than men” (NASB).
Let us work together to impact the Kingdom of God for His glory. He will strengthen and guide us every step of the way.
We are not in this alone.
