Courts Say Living by Christian Faith Illegal
E.A. Johnston warns that living by Christian faith in today's society may lead to persecution similar to that faced by the early church, urging believers to stand firm for Jesus despite the cost.
In this prophetic sermon, E.A. Johnston challenges believers to recognize the increasing opposition to Christian faith in society and to prepare for the potential costs of discipleship. Drawing parallels with the early church's persecution, Johnston calls Christians to boldly declare 'Jesus is Lord' despite societal pressures. The message is a stirring call to faithfulness and courage in the face of growing hostility.
Full Transcript
The battle cry of the early church was Jesus is Lord. It was either Caesar is Lord, and you acknowledge him as Lord, and then you get along fine with the government, or it was Jesus is Lord, and you were then viewed as an enemy of the state, your house was then ransacked, your goods were confiscated, your family left homeless, and you were thrown in prison for your testimony in Christ Jesus, and you were eventually thrown to the lions to be killed. The lion in the sand was drawn by the blood of the martyrs.
And soon, in this country, friends, as a believer, you will be forced to denounce your faith and get along fine with the government, or you will take a stand for Jesus, which will cost you something. It may be. It may cost you your money.
It may cost you your freedom by being thrown in prison. And if things get hot enough in this country like it is in China, it may cost you your very life. Like I said, the blood of the martyrs was drawn.
There was a lion drawn in the sand. And the battle cry of the early church was Jesus is Lord. And that should be our cry today, friends, against a God-hate society.
Let us draw a line and take a stand for our King Jesus. Let us pray.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The early church's battle cry: Jesus is Lord
- Conflict between allegiance to Caesar or Christ
- Consequences faced by early believers
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II
- Current societal pressures against Christian faith
- Possible costs of standing for Jesus today
- Comparisons to persecution in other countries
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III
- The symbolism of the lion and the blood of martyrs
- Call to believers to take a stand
- Prayer for courage and faithfulness
Key Quotes
“The battle cry of the early church was Jesus is Lord.” — E.A. Johnston
“And soon, in this country, friends, as a believer, you will be forced to denounce your faith or take a stand for Jesus, which will cost you something.” — E.A. Johnston
“Let us draw a line and take a stand for our King Jesus.” — E.A. Johnston
Application Points
- Stand firm in your faith even when it is costly or unpopular.
- Be prepared to face opposition for your Christian testimony.
- Pray for strength and courage to remain faithful to Jesus.