In the quintessential definition of rebellion, much of modern American culture appears to be tolerant of everything EXCEPT the traditional morals and values of our ancestors.
What was once considered obvious common sense is now labeled “out of touch”, “antiquated”, “bigoted” and “hateful”.
From protests to Nightly News and Social Media, some members of our communities are increasingly being told to keep their big mouths shut. The rhetoric is mind-numbing.
Frighteningly, it seems that much of the “shut your mouth” tactics are successful as hardworking, peace-minded Americans retreat from the fight. This stands in stark contrast to Acts 4 when Peter and John were warned by leaders to stop speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus. Their response, “[is it] right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God…” If we continue to remain silent, where does it end?
The Bible has a lot to say about when we should speak up:
- Always be prepared to make a defense for the hope that is in you. – 1 Peter 3:15-16
- The tongue has the power of life and death – Proverbs 18:21
- Preach the Good News to EVERYONE – Mark 16:15
- We should not be ashamed of the Good News of Jesus Christ – It is the power of salvation – Romans 1:16
- Confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord. – Romans 10:9
- Teach and warn one another in all wisdom – Colossians 3:16
- Destroy arguments that are raised against God – 2 Corinthians 10:5
- Scripture comes out of God’s mouth and is useful for criticism, correction and training for living right – 2 Timothy 3:16
- Expose works of darkness – Ephesians 5:11
- Speak the truth in love so we can grow up in Christ – Ephesians 4:15
- Open your mouth, judge rightly – Proverbs 31:9
- We can only worship God in spirit and in truth – John 4:24
So I encourage you, speak up for God and His heart. You are His ambassador in the earth. Just make sure you do it in love and with wisdom. We don’t need more rhetoric, we need more truth and righteousness.
Shalom!
Rodney