In light of the current political shifts in the United States and abroad, particularly with the rise of conservative values, a crucial question arises for the church: What should we do in this moment? As we navigate this challenging time, the church must consider how it responds to these changes, holds fast to the truth, and stands boldly for what is right.
Recent events, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, have unearthed corruption within our systems, including the government. While it’s no surprise that corruption exists within human institutions, we have witnessed both the left and right wings of the political spectrum reveal these flaws. It’s important to recognize that the church is not exempt from this issue either.
For years, some have placed their hopes in political figures like Donald Trump, believing that his presidency could fix all that ails our society. While it is clear that Trump’s leadership has stopped certain totalitarian agendas from progressing, we must be cautious in our trust of any leader. Ultimately, our faith should not rest in any human figure, but in the One who is sovereign over all things.
At the same time, we must address the compromises within the church. Big Evangelical movements (Big Eva) have seen growing corruption, with some leaders aligning themselves with ideologies that distort the truth of God’s Word. The rise of such influences demands careful attention. Are these leaders genuinely pursuing God’s truth, or are they simply catering to cultural pressures?
Jesus, in Luke 12, gives us profound wisdom that speaks directly to our situation. He warns, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Just as the Pharisees in Jesus’ time were guilty of hypocrisy, we too must examine our own lives for any traces of this dangerous sin.
It is easy to point out hypocrisy in others, particularly in politics, but what about within the church? If we are going to speak out against the wrongs of others, we must first be sure that we are not guilty of the same issues. As Jesus teaches, we must deal with the “beam” in our own eye before trying to remove the “speck” from someone else’s.
The church must be a beacon of authenticity, grounded in the truth of Scripture, if it is to have any credibility in the world. If we want to have a powerful voice in society, it starts with living out the truth ourselves—without compromise. This means rejecting the temptation to align with worldly values or celebrity culture for the sake of reputation. Our allegiance must be to Christ and His Word.
Luke 12 continues, “Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.” This is a sobering reminder that all actions, even those done in secret, will eventually be exposed. In our current climate, we are seeing the exposure of scandals and hidden sins, especially among influential church leaders.
As troubling as this may be, it should not lead us to despair or cynicism. Rather, it should compel us to ensure that we live with integrity, for there is no such thing as hidden sin in God’s eyes. While some may think they can keep their wrongdoings concealed, they will ultimately be brought to light. Whether in the church or the government, we must be vigilant against hypocrisy and hold ourselves accountable to the standard of truth in God’s Word.
In Luke 12:4, Jesus offers a powerful word of encouragement: “Do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell.” This is a reminder that, as Christians, our primary fear should not be of human opposition, whether it’s from political enemies or compromised leaders within the church.
If we are to be true to the gospel, we must recognize that fear of God—who holds eternal authority—is more important than any fear of man. In times of persecution or cultural pressure, we must stand firm, knowing that our ultimate accountability is to God.
Jesus continues in verses 8-9: “Everyone who acknowledges Me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. But the one who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God.” In a time when the church is under pressure to conform, we must choose to stand boldly for Christ, no matter the consequences.
This does not mean that every Christian is called to be a public evangelist, but every believer is called to be a faithful witness. Whether you have a large platform or not, your voice matters in the public sphere. We must be willing to speak up for truth, especially when it challenges the status quo or exposes sin.
When faced with challenges, many of us fear speaking the truth because we don’t know what to say. But Jesus reassures us in Luke 12:11-12: “When they bring you before the synagogues, the rulers, and the authorities, do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”
This is a promise for every believer: When you stand up for truth, the Holy Spirit will empower you with the words and boldness you need. You don’t have to rely on your own strength—God will equip you for the task at hand.
So, what is the church’s role in this time? It’s not to place our hope in political figures or worldly systems, but to rise up and speak the truth, no matter the cost. We must call leaders to accountability, reject hypocrisy, and stand firm in the gospel. We are not called to passively wait for a political savior, but to actively live out the values of God’s kingdom in the world.
Church, we must find our voice again. Let us boldly proclaim Christ as Lord, regardless of the pressures we face. In these critical days, may we be faithful to the truth of Scripture, shining as lights in a darkened world.
Are you ready to stand up for truth? Are you willing to let your voice be heard in the public square, no matter the consequences? The time to act is now.
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