Don't Be Ashamed Of Jesus # 4

Don't Be Ashamed Of Jesus # 4

Ask philosophical minds why they are ashamed of Christ, and they will demand in counterquestions: "How do you expect us to accept a religion in which a God permits wars terrors and agony? How can we harmonize the existence of pain and evil with the Christian faith?" Some of you likewise refuse to acclaim Jesus your Redeemer because you think that the Lord has dealt too cruelly with you. A dear one has been snatched from your side, and in stubborn resentment you demand: "How can there be a God if I must suffer this way? How can there be a Saviour if I am plunged into this agony?" You have tried to settle these issues apart from the Word of God. If only you would realize that Jesus has the key and explanation of human suffering! Those who come to Him in faith know that each affliction is laid upon them, as the Lord's redeemed, by divine mercy instead of His anger, that trials which seem beyond analysis are the Almighty's way of purifying faith and strengthening trust.

Again, ask proud enemies of our faith why they are hostile to the Gospel, and they will sneer: "Well, hasn't Christianity been rejected by outstanding scientists? Isn't it true that all great thinkers have discarded the Bible? To both questions we answer with an emphatic "NO!" Not only have leaders in every branch of learning been humble followers of the Lord Jesus, but today, during the heyday of unbelief and atheism, recognized teachers and intellectual leaders have come out strongly for Christ. Listen to these testimonies by men on the faculties of great American universities: From the University of Wisconsin: "In the Bible we find...our Saviour, and eternal life through faith in Him!" From Ohio State University: "The Bible has shown me my sin with its terrifying consequences; but it has also brought me the direct comfort of the Saviour who died for me on Calvary!" From Michigan State College: "The Bible reveals Christ and His vicarious atonement for the sins of mankind!" From Johns Hopkins University: "I believe that...the Son of God Himself came down to earth and by the shedding of His blood on the Cross paid the infinite penalty of the guilt of the whole world!" From Temple University: "I have praised the Lord that as a physician He has given me the privilege of testifying to Christ's saving grace!" From the University of Illinois: "In Jesus Christ I have found my Saviour and Lord, my Helper along the way. Without Him life would be empty and worthless, the load of sin ... still separating me from God!"

Should you refuse to accept Christ? Many who attack the Bible have never studied His Word, and many who assail His Word are led by blind and willful ignorance. If you who place question marks behind the glorious truth of the Saviour's atonement would only stop locking the Holy Spirit out of your heart and take time to consider the many infallible proofs of His forgiving, sustaining love you, too, could write a glorious chapter in your life's story. Do not be troubled by the fact that men with headline names often attempt to discredit our Lord! And you too, will be able to say with earnest truth: "I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ!"

May the Holy Spirit mercifully keep you from that terrifying denial! May He rather lead you (and I have prayed especially for those  who once knew the Lord, but who followed the path of sin; for you who until this hour have neglected your soul and steadfastly turned from Christ), if necessary, through suffering, sorrow, and pain, but always from cross to crown! May He bring you, humble, repentant, yet trusting, joyful, to Calvary, where, your sins forgiven, your cares cast on Him, your hope strengthened by His unfailing promise, your faith exults: "Blessed Saviour, how could I be ashamed of Thee and Thy Gospel, the promise of my forgiveness, life, salvation? O Jesus, precious Lord, grant me constantly more of Thy love, as I give myself in soul and body, mind and spirit, to Thee now and forever!" For heaven is yours when Christ thus becomes your Saviour. God give you this unashamed, unhesitating, unending faith in the blessed Redeemer! Amen.

~Walter A. Maier!

(The End)