How does Luke 9:26 challenge us to live boldly for Christ today? Setting the Scene Jesus has just called His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Him (Luke 9:23–25). Immediately He adds a sober warning: “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His glory, and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” — Luke 9:26 The verse presses every disciple to decide whether we will stand with Christ now—or risk His disapproval later. What “Ashamed” Looks Like Today • Hiding your faith in conversations because you fear losing approval. • Refraining from biblical convictions on morality, marriage, or salvation to avoid controversy. • Silencing public gratitude to Jesus for fear of seeming “religious.” • Prioritizing reputation, success, or comfort over obedience to His words. Why Bold Allegiance Matters 1. Eternal Perspective • Luke 9:26 ties present courage to future glory. • Jesus’ approval on Judgment Day far outweighs any temporary human opinion (2 Corinthians 4:17). 2. Gospel Integrity • “I am not ashamed of the gospel” (Romans 1:16). • Hiding the message distorts its power and beauty to a watching world. 3. Love for Christ • Owning His name is an act of devotion (John 14:15). • Refusing to speak up implies His worth is negotiable—and it never is. Practical Ways to Live Unashamed • Speak Truth with Grace – Share Christ naturally in everyday talk; season words with kindness (Colossians 4:6). • Show Public Loyalty – Pray over meals, carry a Bible, post Scripture online—not as performance, but as genuine witness. • Stand Firm under Pressure – When policies, friends, or media oppose biblical values, stay courteous yet uncompromising (Acts 4:19–20). • Serve Boldly – Volunteer, give, and sacrifice in ways that spotlight Jesus’ love (Matthew 5:16). • Cultivate Courage in Community – Gather with believers who spur one another to fearless obedience (Hebrews 10:24–25). Promises That Fuel Courage • The Spirit empowers, not intimidates: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Christ publicly acknowledges the faithful: “Everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32). • Sharing in His reproach now leads to sharing in His glory later (Romans 8:17; 1 Peter 4:13). Living It Out This Week • Identify one setting where you’ve stayed silent about Jesus—home, office, social media. • Ask the Spirit for boldness, then take a clear, loving stand for Him there. • Remember Luke 9:26 each time fear whispers. Eternity is listening, and Christ’s smile awaits. |
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