For the Church

landscape-2On June 26th 2015 the Supreme Court of the United States ruled 5-4 and in one moment legalized same-sex marriage across all 50 states. This is a decision that we have seen coming for some time. It did not happen overnight. It should not come as a shock or as a surprise to anyone. It should serve as a wakeup call to every Christian who has grown up in this country that the United States is no longer a Christian nation. If there was any doubt left, yesterday’s decision has left no stone unturned.

While the world is busy following the prince and power of the air, the Enemy, down the road of destruction, what does this mean for the Church?

First, it means that we must stand even firmer on the truth of the Word of God. We must stand firm, because in Proverbs 14:12 we read, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Following what feels right, or accepted, or popular may allow someone the opportunity to fit-in with the culture, but in the end destroy themselves. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 says, “So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.”

Second, it means that we must persevere. We are going to face real persecution in this country for the first time because of our beliefs. We will be hated, spit upon, and cursed. In some cases we will lose our jobs, in others the doors for promotion or advancement will be closed. We may eventually lose our property and be called to surrender our lives. Through it all we must endure this temporary suffering as our Lord and Savior endured so much worse on the cross for us. Jesus told his disciples in John 15:18, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”

Third, it means that we must love. We must love those that are blinded by sin. We must love those that hate us. We must love those who wish to silence, marginalize, and destroy us. We must love them as the Lord loves them. We must not bend or be silent, but we must not lash out in fear or in hate. We must lovingly point the world to the One who is our only hope, Jesus Christ. We must speak the truth unashamedly but speak it in love.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:43-44

“Here I stand, I can do no other.” Martin Luther – April 18, 1521

Solo Deo Gloria – “Glory to God Alone”

Rev. Jason Fletcher

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