The Apostle Paul said a profound statement in one of his letters.....
That we should be willing to endure and suffer all things, lest we hinder the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:12).
The Good News of Jesus and His offer of Salvation should be proclaimed with all power, integrity, miracles, signs and wonders. It is the most important news in the world!
But tragically it can also be hindered, meaning it can be slowed down or made difficult for people to accept it. Not because the Gospel is faulty, or there is something wrong with the Message. But simply because of the messenger.
It is sobering to think that my life could hinder a non-Christian for wanting to pursue a relationship with God. How their eternal destiny is hugely influenced by my words, actions and lifestyle.
Looking back on my life, I deeply regret the times I could have done better in my witness to others; when I was rude, impatient and self-righteous.
Throughout Church history, there have been many times the Gospel has sadly been rejected and ridiculed by unbelievers. The hypocrisy of the Dark Ages, the violence of the Crusades and the child abuse from the Catholic Church to name a few. I can not imagine anything more tragic.
Other bible passages says our prayers can be hindered by treating others poorly (1 Peter 3:7), with wrong motives (James 4:3), or living a double life of sin (Psalm 66:18).
Our Christian witness is so important. It can be the difference between a precious soul going to Heaven or Hell for all Eternity.
The opposite of hinder is to facilitate, meaning to make easier and assist others. And this is what our lives should look like. To be above reproach and to live an inspiring Christian life in word and deed.
But what does it actually mean to endure all things? It is to endure when life is unfair. To stay faithful to your spouse and not give up on your marriage when times are tough. To have faith in God even when your circumstances are not going your way.
It is to love righteousness and hate wickedness. To show integrity in your workplace. To be a godly example to your family and children. To love your enemies and to forgive those who don’t deserve it. To not love the things of the world and be content with what you have, among many other attributes.
Yes, we should be willing to suffer all things, lest we hinder the gospel, because the stakes are so high.
How is your witness today?
