Donnie Spears: The sin of silence

“Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples.” Psalm 96:1-3.
Christians, we are called to share Jesus. The Bible tells us very plain that only through the Name of Jesus does anyone have hope. Why are there so few people who talk about Jesus? I hear people promoting their church in so many ways from small groups to youth groups to kids programs to worship — even the pastor. That’s all good, but rarely do you hear the name Jesus.
Why do you think that is? Are there just a few who believe in Jesus, or could it be we feel inadequate and under qualified, or afraid we won’t have all the answers? Well, that is true for everyone.
No one has all the answers.
Stop for a moment and think about all Jesus has done for you. Make a list and write some down and remember. “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Phillipians 4:13.
The Bible does not say witnessing is something we do if we feel like it or when we become sure enough, it is a part of our everyday life. Look at the early church when they were punished and told not to share the name of Jesus by the authorities.
“So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.” Acts 5:41-42.
When Jesus was standing trial, then on the cross, where were His defenders?
Were they speaking up for Him? No, they were all silent.
Where were the sick He healed, the lame, the blind, the lepers, the hungry, those He had forgiven, and called to follow? How could they be silent after all Jesus had done for them? What about Me, what about You has Jesus done anything for us? Are you silent?
What if you were never told about Jesus, how He loves you and gave His life for you.
That Jesus wants to forgive and save you, where would you be? What if you don’t share Jesus with the one God has placed in front of you?
We may say we love Jesus, go to church, have a fish bumper sticker, but if we don’t share Jesus with our friends so the Holy Spirit can help them see the truth in the Gospel how can they understand.
If your voice trembles, your hands shake, or you stumble over words, God can be your witness. God cannot use your silence. Jesus is the only hope anyone has and if we won’t share the saving grace of Jesus what hope is there?
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6.
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.
It’s all about Jesus!
Who will you tell about Jesus?
Donnie Spears is the pastor at Corinth Baptist Church near Cassville. He may be reached at 417-847-4165.