We are ashamed of what we do not want to admit, of what we want to hide, of what we know is wrong, and of what has been poorly done. We should be ashamed of sin and when sin is exposed; ashamed of some thoughts revealed, of some attitudes expressed, and often of words spoken. Shame brings us to avoid, ignore, hide, or run from others. But there is no need for shame when it comes to the Gospel. Paul boldly stated, For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek (Romans 1.16).
There is nothing of shame in the Gospel of God. It is this “good news” which rescues us from the fullness of our sin, from the darkness of sinful living, and from eternal judgment because of sin. In this Gospel we have the hope of salvation, the promise of deliverance, the joy of victory, and the expectation of eternity. This is the Gospel of resurrection – rooted in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and in His victory over the grave, over sin, over judgment, and over the evil enemy Satan. Here is our hope as we have now been resurrected from our deadness in sin to the joy of new life in Christ; this is our hope in the future resurrection, looking forward to the day when Jesus comes, and we will be raised to eternally live in His presence. There is no shame in this Gospel for all who believe have been freed and forgiven of all sin, have been adopted into the eternal family of God, and have great hope in what is to come. There is no need for shame, for through this Gospel others can also be rescued from their sinful grave cell and be set free from the bondage and horror of sin’s miserable grip. May we speak the Gospel boldly, say it strongly, and say it without reservation. May we not only speak the words, but also confidently live the words –“I am not ashamed of the Gospel,” for we are saved through Christ.
Unashamed of Christ – we have much to be thankful for –
Terry
My Morning Desk 