RE Verse reading–Acts 28:17-31 (day two) “It is spoken against everywhere” (17:22). Whether we realize it or not, we have entered a cultural climate that no longer favors historic Christianity as its dominate worldview. The basic truths upon which our faith rests are not just opposed by our culture. They are foreign to our culture. God exists. Sin deserves death. Jesus is a substitute sacrifice. Restoration is coming. These ideas are “spoken against everywhere” and require the kind of response that Paul gave…“expounding” and “witnessing” and “persuading” from dawn til dusk if need be (17:23). It’s not enough for pastors to be proficient in proclaiming these truths. Every believer must “always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Can’t do it? Then find a pastor or teacher or trusted friend and “arrange a day” (17:23) to discuss these truths. Our culture won’t sit around waiting. Will you?
I am very likely older than you but since I lived outside the church for many years in my life, I can attest to the fact that this world has never been for the Kingdom of God…. not in my lifetime. I suspect, however, that as long as we had the pretense, it was “all good” in the eyes of most.
A clear example of this is the passage in 1 Peter 3. Verse 15 starts out as “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;….” It seems to me that the first part… SANCTIFY CHRIST AS LORD IN YOUR HEARTS…. is a necessary part of this whole equation and that having someone teach you good theology…. that you do not experience in your heart…. will not convince anyone. This has been the game plan for much of the church. The Bible clearly gives God’s plan to be other than the current one man or a few men show that is currently what most people… even Christians… consider to be “church.” As you point out, each believer should be able to give testimony about the Kingdom of God… with Gifts to back it up… (because they are alive to it/walking in it) with their desired result being that they really want to persuade others concerning Jesus (not just to be right/convince others of their own agenda). My daughter recently asked me out of the blue why she never heard of the Holy Spirit when she was younger…. despite being active in a church. The truth is we cannot spread Light that we have not experienced.
I guess it all depends on your point of view. If one’s desire is for their success, safety, comfort, frequent vacations, retirement account, etc. then one has much to be concerned about. If, however, one’s heart desire is to identify the darkness and penetrate it with the Light…. there is much opportunity and thus reason to recommit to that task and rejoice in the Works that the Lord is and will be doing. To the INCREASE in His Government and Peace there will be no end! May He forever be praised!!