God speaks through us, preaching the Good News of the Gospel, which holds back the forces of evil. When evil appears, preach the Good News boldly. When preaching the Gospel Message, the disciples often found themselves in chains. Paul was in chains when testifying to the Ephesians, saying thus, “I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So, pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should” (Eph. 6:20, NLT). Imprisoned, Paul remained steadfast in his convictions, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching the Good News of the Gospel.
Once, Paul taught in the temple with Greeks, which disturbed the Men of Israel. They seized Paul, dragged him out of the temple, and beat him. Hearing the mob, the Commander stopped the beating and ordered Paul bound by two chains (Acts 21:33); still, Paul would not be silent. He pleaded with the Commander to speak to the people. As ambassadors for Christ, continue to preach God’s Word, regardless of the circumstances.
Christ’s ambassadors are not ashamed because the gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then the Greek (Rom. 1:16). Add to your faith and become assertive in the Lord, and do not succumb to corruption when faced with suffering or temptation. We live in troubling times where lawlessness has gotten a foothold in this world and is using the rulers of this age to pervert the Gospel Message and corrupt those appointed to oversee and administer justice. Strive to be like Paul, who said, “In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind” (2 Cor. 6:4, NLT). Even if you stand up for the truth, in no way will anyone in this present age be subjected to the suffering that the apostles and disciples endured in past times, at least not in a country supposedly built on Christian values.
Ambassadors of Christ allow God to speak through them (2 Cor. 5:20). When the lines of communication are compromised, never forget Jesus said, “Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind” (Phil. 2:2). Be calm, listen, and let the Lord speak through you. Whatever comes against us, we must focus on the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ and proclaim it everywhere we go to all who listen.
Know the Scriptures and speak fearlessly. Confidence in God’s Word and the future reduces fear in the present; so, as Paul said, “reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don’t try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this” (2 Cor. 4:2, NLT). Wear the armor of God, walk worthy of your calling, and preach the Good News.
Minister Nettie Pennington, Associate Minister, Springfield MB Church
