Grace is defined as ‘courteous good will’, but that seems fairly lukewarm when considering grace in the context of faith, the fact that Jesus died for our sins is surely much more than just an act of good will, He paid the ultimate price for us, so therefore we need to live as he calls us to, despite our actions perhaps appearing scandalous.
Speaking out about your faith
It is our duty as Christians to highlight our faith to others. This can be verbally or through actions, but we need to stand out. As Christians we are told to be discerning with our words, and to look to God for guidance on how to live our lives, rather than society or the media. Whilst others’ conversations might revolve around material things, we have this hope and beautiful faith, which needs to be celebrated and told.
‘Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.’ | Ephesians 4:29
Being seen as a Christian without necessarily saying it.
Having said this, there’s no need to force our beliefs and opinions, there are much more loving ways to talk about your faith. It’s a lot of pressure to answer non-believers questions about Christianity, as you want to avoid putting them off, and put Christianity in a good light. However, someone of faith can be recognisable from their actions and lifestyle. Instead of turning to magazines or TV for advice, we pray, and instead of getting highs from drink and drugs, our spiritual high is from church. Christianity offers hope, peace and security, which is what people are attracted to, and why wouldn’t they want this kind of life?
‘I can do all things through Him who strengthens me’ | Philippians 4:13
‘Scandalous’ Actions
These days, not drinking or having sex can be seen as scandalous. Withholding from these activities is now apparently more shocking than participating in them. But we are offered so much more – as Christians’ satisfaction doesn’t come from material earthly acts or possessions, but from our Heavenly Father.
Over 2000 years ago, Jesus’ actions would have been seen as scandalous – he constantly spoke to the poor, outcast and diseased, at a time where this would’ve been looked down on. His actions changed people’s lives then, and can change others now. As Christians we need to follow in his footsteps, and not live for ourselves, but for Him.
‘Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ’ | Colossians 3:2-24
Be scandalous!
So I challenge you, don’t blend in – it’s time to show how different your lifestyle is from others – whether that’s to your colleagues or classmates; be scandalous and stand out. Be kind when others aren’t, pray for those around you and for those in your life that are yet to know Jesus.
By Lois Christine Forster