Column by Bro. Terry Ivy
“Contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” (Jude 3) A simple glance across the political and spiritual horizon reveals the need for men and women of faith to take a stand. The Lord has allowed me to walk on this earth for 59 years, and I could have never imagined the climate that exists within our nation.
Our national Democratic leaders stand up for the systematic slaughter of unborn children, yet, many who claim to be Christians continue to support these godless politicians. Why? Because they do not know Christ or the scriptures. Political expediency demands that certain sections of society remain on the plantation of the Democratic Party. All types of verbal gymnastics are performed by those who want to appear righteous while they refuse to rebuke the anti-christian platform of the left. They are in bondage to the party of their skin color and peers instead of being loyal to the teachings of Christ.
We have churches that are busy catering to social issues while they abandon the faith of New Testament Christianity. Can you imagine how John Wesley would feel if he returned today to see descendants of his work accept the perversion of homosexuality? He would stand firmly against those who promote the homosexual, transgender, queer, lesbian, and bisexual agenda. If your money goes to support fellowships that refuse to take a stand, you are guilty of elevating this immorality in our nation.
Last weekend, the children of our community enjoyed collecting candy as they celebrated Halloween. However, let us remember that it was on October 31, 1517, that an Augustinian monk nailed his 95 theses upon the door of the Wittenberg Castle in Germany. This monk was Martin Luther, and his bold action became the landmark event that shook the religious world and began the Protestant Reformation.
Dr. Billy Graham said, “When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” Martin Luther took a stand, and hundreds of others grew a backbone of boldness. John Wesley stood for God’s Word, and hundreds of men came forward to proclaim the gospel, and they shook two continents.
Our generation is in dire need of men and women who will stand in the boldness of Christ and speak the truth in the midst of a compromising and blind world.
Multitudes who grew up in church have set their faith aside and are following the ways of this world. We have buzzard believers (those who only go to church when there is a funeral), mommy believers (those who only go on Mother’s Day), and holiday believers (those who only go at Christmas and Easter). Neither a funeral, your mom, or the holidays will save your soul. Heaven is only for those who repent and surrender to Christ.
For the sake of our country, the health of our family, the eternal destiny of our children and grandchildren, let us not shrink back from speaking the truth. Even if our knees shake and we are misunderstood, stand. You may be hated, criticized, laughed at, or ignored. However, the Lord will have the last word. Having done all… STAND!
