This may come as a shock, but I find it difficult to write a research paper without having it sound like a sermon. I just can't help but mention the gospel or the freedom that God brings. It's completely natural, because He saved my life and I yearn to give Him glory and share the truth.
The problem is when I become so biased that I seem like a judgmental bigot (someone who won't even listen to other people's opinions). I am sorry! I think one of the most difficult things I ever struggle with in life is judgment. Only God has the right to judge anyone. It's not my place. I just become so frustrated, that I'm willing to get in people's faces to bring them the truth.
This summer I'm (hopefully) going on a missions trip to Mexico. I have to admit, it's going to be scary. In my church I'm in a Sunday School class called "Underground Vietnam." It's so inspiring to watch Christians risk their lives for the sake of the Gospel! How could they do such a thing? Paul is a perfect example. He was actually debating which was better - to live now and carry out God's will, or to die for his work and go live in Heaven with Jesus!
The problem is when I become so biased that I seem like a judgmental bigot (someone who won't even listen to other people's opinions). I am sorry! I think one of the most difficult things I ever struggle with in life is judgment. Only God has the right to judge anyone. It's not my place. I just become so frustrated, that I'm willing to get in people's faces to bring them the truth.
This summer I'm (hopefully) going on a missions trip to Mexico. I have to admit, it's going to be scary. In my church I'm in a Sunday School class called "Underground Vietnam." It's so inspiring to watch Christians risk their lives for the sake of the Gospel! How could they do such a thing? Paul is a perfect example. He was actually debating which was better - to live now and carry out God's will, or to die for his work and go live in Heaven with Jesus!
Either way he won! That kind of mindset can cause you to accomplish great things in life. God can eliminate any fear and bring courage. I am so thankful He does. That's exactly why I am so bold. All of my friends know I am. They label it as "radical," but so what? I am a radical Jesus Freak. And nothing can stop my enthusiasm for the Bible. Nothing can take away God's love from me (Romans 8:38-39). I am not ashamed of the Gospel!Philippians 1:20 (NIV)
"I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death."
Why are there so many closet Christians? You know, Christians who are ashamed of the gospel. Or at least afraid of what their friends will think of them. They've said the prayer; they may even have fruit in their lives. But they are not an active witness for Jesus Christ. You might not even be able to differentiate between them and an atheist! We are called to be lights in the world and carry out the Great Commission - making disciples! That doesn't necessarily mean to immediately tell everyone you meet about Jesus (although I think that would be fun). The best approach is to live out your life like Jesus. To tell your family and friends about the Good News. And to not be ashamed of the Gospel!!! The POWER of God can defeat any evil. Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Be courageous!Romans 1:16 (NIV)
"I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile."
Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
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