Ambassadors For Christ: Stand Up For Jesus*

Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.

1 Peter 3:15 (NKJV)

A common fear among Christians today is sharing the Gospel… and getting shunned by those who didn’t ask or don’t want to hear.

I get it. Perhaps more importantly, more harm than good can be done… when God’s Word is shoved through the wrong mouth to the wrong heart:

  • Like a jam-packed mouth to a fatty heart,

  • Or a toothless mouth to a baby heart,

  • Or an angry mouth to a hardened heart,

  • Or a pouting mouth to a scheming heart,

When God’s Exemplary Evangelist…

  • Preached or taught Salvation’s messages, He used an open broadcast in public,

  • Including thought-provoking Parables. People could listen, leave, or consider…

  • But He didn’t force the Truth upon them. Each script was tailored to the audience. 

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

Approaching random people with lines like, “Are you saved?” repels (rather than attracts) lost people. My thoughts as a veteran outsider? Speaking bluntly… is a stupid approach:/ 

On the other hand, most Christians don't evangelize at all– which is possibly… criminal neglect. So which is worse? Stupid or criminal?

Here’s the thing:

We don't need to be either ugly word to witness Jesus. Remember the marching orders He gave us: 'Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves' (Matthew 10:16).

The best way to open the door to Christ… is to ACT LIKE CHRIST!

How?

Freely share with everyone, everywhere, the gracious fruit of the Holy Spirit:

  • 'Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control' (Galatians 5:22-23).

  • This reviving fruit opens mouths and hearts. It crosses all cultural boundaries.

Some will become intrigued by your kindness… and ask you why you’re so positive. Your response? 

  • 'Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you' (1 Peter 3:15).

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

  • Always, always... stand up, KINDLY for Jesus.

Ambassadors For Christ: Stand Up For Jesus (Part 18)

* Song: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus (Text: George Duffield, Jr., 1818-1888, Music: George J. Webb, 1803-1887)

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, Ye soldiers of the Cross; Lift high His royal banner, It must not suffer loss. From victory unto victory, His army shall He lead, Till every foe is vanquished, And Christ is Lord indeed.

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, The trumpet call obey; Forth to the mighty conflict, In this His glorious day. Ye that are brave now serve Him Against unnumbered foes; Let courage rise with danger, And strength to strength oppose.

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, Stand in His strength alone; The arm of flesh will fail you, Ye dare not trust your own. Put on the Gospel armor, Each piece put on with prayer; Where duty calls or danger, Be never wanting there.

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, The strife will not be long; This day the noise of battle, The next the victor's song. To those who vanquish evil A crown of life shall be; They with the King of Glory Shall reign eternally.

* Children's choir: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r11Gmdq__-8

NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players.’ Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.

Carey Arban