Title: Are You Ashamed of Jesus? Subtitle: Are you Afraid of the Cross? By: Gen. James Green
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith...There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” (Rom. 1:16, 17; 8:1, 2).
Introduction
Jesus is undoubtedly the world’s greatest man—He is loved, misunderstood, and even disliked by many. Millions, both Christians and non-Christians, have studied the Scriptures to understand His message and purpose. Jesus is the Son of God and the Son of Man, the humble redeemer who will return to judge and redeem, to destroy and recreate. Apostle Paul, a once fierce persecutor of Christians, boldly declared, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes…” (Rom. 1:16). Many see Jesus as a revolutionary, a healer, a preacher, and a deliverer. Yet, how many of us today can stand as boldly as Paul?
Paul’s Declaration
Paul proclaimed that Christ and the Cross bring the power of salvation. With this deep conviction, Paul declared that he was neither ashamed nor afraid of the Gospel or the Cross. How many of us today can say the same? Are we too weak to proclaim His name? Are we waiting until Christianity is outlawed before we stand for the Gospel?
Disparagement and Ridicule
In Paul’s day, the Gospel was attacked by both the Romans and unconverted Jews. The proud and wealthy found no appeal in it, as it condemned both material riches and self-worship. Today, many Christians flee from ridicule, and the church is full of idol worshipers—people who put wealth and power above God. The word "Gospel" means “good news,” and it is indeed the power of God for salvation to those who believe.
Power of God
The “good news” is a dynamic event—a manifestation of God’s omnipotence, capable of transforming lives. Yet, so many believers are too ashamed or afraid to proclaim this good news. Why do we stay silent when the world is in desperate need of salvation?
Salvation
Salvation is a journey that includes three stages:
- Past Stage: We receive forgiveness of sins and enter into a relationship with God.
- Present Stage: We are called to live a holy life, filled with the Holy Spirit, and to fight against sin.
- Future Stage: We will be delivered from God's coming wrath and receive eternal rewards.
Redemption and Justification
Redemption is the process by which Christ frees us from the dominion of sin through His sacrifice. Justification means being made right with God, not by our works but by His grace. It is through Christ's atoning death and resurrection that we are forgiven and restored to a right relationship with God.
Paul’s Sword
Paul's preaching was powerful, cutting through cowardice and compromise. He preached the Gospel in Rome, a city of idolatry and vice. Today, America mirrors that ancient city, full of self-esteem and idol worship. We must stand boldly like Paul, despite the ridicule and opposition we may face from both Christians and non-Christians alike.
Power to Forgive Sin
Jesus holds the power to forgive sin, something no religious system can do. Yet, what do we see in the church today? Liars, frauds, and idol-worshippers fill the pews. Religion does not free us, but faith in Christ does.
Righteousness and Wrath
Righteousness is the character of God, and His opposition to sin manifests in His wrath. Many Christians today shy away from the truth of God's wrath, focusing only on His love. However, wrath is rooted in love, as God's justice demands punishment for sin. If we do not hate sin, something is missing in our relationship with God.
Conclusion
We must not be ashamed or afraid to proclaim the full message of the Gospel, including both God’s love and His wrath. Salvation and damnation are the two ultimate realities. God's love calls us to repentance, and His wrath serves as a warning against sin. Let us stand boldly like Paul and proclaim the truth of the Gospel to a world in desperate need of salvation.
