Mark 8:38 (NLT)
If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
As I reread our portion of Scripture today, I hearken back to the opening line of a DC Talk tune from their Jesus Freak album. Before the whine of the opening chords, Toby Mac declares, “The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, then walk out the door and deny him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world finds simply unbelievable.” Statements such as this, as well as the words of our Savior in the text, cause us to take a look at ourselves and see if we’re a part of this problematic bunch. No matter what you call it- I say “balanced self evaluation,” our pastor calls it, “finding a way of making it your fault” -it’s a persistent pestilence on the people.
Let’s face the harsh reality: we’re a two-faced people. And its driving people, including ourselves, away from GOD. So, how do we change this? As my friends in Alcoholics Anonymous relate, “One step at a time.”
1. Realization.
We must first come to realize that we have a problem with this. If you’re in denial as to whether this affects you, consider this scenario and answer honestly. Compare your last visit with your “church” friends to the last visit with your “other” friends. Can you say you were the same person around both? Were you embarrassed or ashamed of Jesus or your Life Change when you were out in the world? If not, press on brothers and sisters. If so, proceed to the next step.
2. Admit and Confess.
Once we realize we have a problem, we must then admit it affects us. Hand in hand with that is confessing our hypocritical nature to GOD and to another trustworthy friend. Rather than finding condemnation, you’ll find freedom. Because you no longer have to hide it. And that trustworthy friend had experienced the same thoughts. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, you’ll no longer have that roadblock between you and GOD in relationship.
3. Change the Behavior.
The best way to change a behavior is to practice at every opportunity. When opportunities arrive in the future, insert a kind word to another. Plant a seed of hope with some. Relate the gospel of Jesus Christ. When confronted, puff out your chest, raise your chin and proclaim, “Yes, I am a Jesus Freak! He heals, saves, and loves me! And he loves you too!”
Application: Be serious and honest with yourself right here and now. Are you ashamed of Jesus Christ when you’re with certain crowds? Prayerfully follow the steps and make adjustments as necessary.
