Something to think about . . . In a recent Indianapolis Star (dated 9/12/2009) a front page article titled, “Religious Skeptics have faith their voices will be heard,” highlighted a growing trend among atheistic and agnostic secularist who challenge the right of Christians to believe, practice, and promote their faith in the public square. Billboards and public transportation advertisements have been splashed with ads saying, “You don’t have to believe in God to be good,” and “Imagine No Religion.” Their point is that those of that persuasion are no longer content to be a silent, enduring group and are intent on taking religion in all its forms out of the public view. It might be easy to write this off as a fringe group, making a lot of noise with little effect. However, their voices have become increasingly listened to by the Courts and legislatures and the Congress in Washington, D.C. The present Administration has cabinet members who openly championed their rights to limit the voice of Christians to speak out and be heard in our communities.

So what should be our response? It should not be nothing. However, we must be careful to distinguish between the God-given right to witness to our faith and the nice-not-necessary privileges long afforded to churches and Christians by a past-friendly governmental environment.

First, we must know what we believe and why we believe it. For too long, believers have let others tell them what they believe and have never cracked the binding on their Bibles to know where it is found and why God tells us about it. Secondly, we must learn to share it in mean-ingful but respectful way. 1 Peter tells us, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15 It does no good to destroy your witness by conduct and words which show hateful rather than loving intent. Finally, we must be willing to suffer for the sake of the Lord and our witness. This phenomena is nothing new. Down through the ages many have tried to snuff out the message of the faith. Presently, in cultures around the world it is a dangerous and non-accepted thing to be a believer in Jesus. Yet, God’s promise is that they will not be able to succeed in silencing you and your faith when Christ’s Spirit dwells within you. So are you indifferent, fearful, or hope-filled in the midst of the winds of change in our culture? . . . That’s something to think about!

~Pastor Tim