Day 107

Today we consider bearing the reproach of Christ; 1 Peter 4:14 says "If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified." The word "reproach" means

"as unjustifiably bringing reproach on someone revile, disparage, insult." So let us get this straight; we are to be happy when we are insulted for the name of Jesus Christ. How often does that happen to you?

In America, we have developed a Gospel without reproach. The problem is that it is not the real Gospel. The truth will bring insults to you personally when those who oppose the Gospel are confronted with its truth. Years ago in an effort to stop riots resulting from the trial of the policemen who beat him Rodney King said: "People, I just want to say, you know, can we all get along?" However, when it comes to the Gospel, that is not our battle cry. The truth cannot mingle with falsity. We must stand for the truth of the Gospel.

The truth of the Gospel is based on the Word of God. It goes something like this: Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven (John 14:6); except you repent you will not see the kingdom of God (Luke 13:3); it is by grace you are saved through faith and it is never by your works (Ephesians 2:8); once you come to Jesus Christ you quit the sin business because you have a new nature (1 John 3:8-9); you are to take this message to the world around you (Matthew 28:19-20). All of these points have no compromise in them; they are clear and specific. There is no "getting along" contained in these directives. We as the body of Christ must be willing to be reproached for the truth. We are to be happy when it occurs. So today, I want you to examine your Gospel message. Does it meet these tests? If so, be prepared to be insulted (Praise God!). If it doesn't, adjust it accordingly and walk in truth. The Word will show you exactly what needs to be changed. Don't forget to be happy.