Living Truth In A World Of Lies

     It is about 33 AD. Moishe and Jacob meet on the temple grounds, and move into a secluded area to speak privately. “The one you told me about, the man Yeshua, it was all true” said Moishe!  “I have now seen with my own eyes!  He cured a Jewish man who was a leper, something that the Rabbi’s told us only the Messiah could do.”  Jacob answered, “I was there when he raised Lazarus, who had been dead for days, and watched him walk from the tomb.  He teaches with authority things
that the Rabbi’s don’t speak of. He does all that the prophets fortold! Truly this is Messiah.
 Jacob looked troubled!  “Moishe, he said, I told the Chief Priest of the things I saw and heard, and he threatened me! He said I was a blasphemer!  That if I repeated these things, I would be stoned”.  “What are we to do”? Moishe answered, “I to told my brethren and those of my village about Yeshua, the Messiah, and now they ridicule me and will have nothing to do with me.”    “I have even heard reports that the Romans are putting those who believe in Yeshua to death!” “But we know what we saw and heard, and can not deny the truth, Jacob exclaimed, no matter what the cost.”

 The above conversation is fictional, but could very well have taken place. From the beginning of Yeshua’s ministry until this very day, Believers have been confronted with these same issues. Having come to the knowledge of the truth, we find ourselves living is a world full of lies.  A place where we are considered out of the secular and religious mainstream, unwilling to conform to popular views, values and practices that are against our core beliefs and understanding.

 Once Believers understand who Jesus was and accept Him for who He is, we are permanently changed. The scripture calls it being “born again”!  And, the Word of God tells us to, “come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you”!  (2Cor. 6:17)

   Over the century’s, those of faith have always suffered for their willingness to become separate from the world, and to live for Messiah.  Sadly, there also have always been those who try to “straddle the fence”, claiming to be Believers, but unwilling to take a stand for their faith, especially if it meant becoming uncomfortable, or the brunt of criticism or persecution.

  In the world today, however, we can see that separation widening, and the “fence straddlers” growing in number. We see it in politics, with the divide between Conservatives and Liberals widening over issues such as abortion, same sex marriage and pornography among others.

 We see it within the church itself over these same issues!  While there are many congregations and denominations that defend biblical teaching concerning these things, there are far too many others embracing these evils, and identifying with the world system. In the Book of Revelations, Yeshua speaks about these lukewarm Believers when He said, “So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spew you out of my mouth” (Rev.3 :16)

 During the first century persecution of the early church, Believers had the conviction of their faith to face crucifixion, the beasts in the arena and the edge of the sword rather that deny their beliefs, which they knew to be true.  They were willing to be shunned by family and friend, spat upon, stoned and beaten for the faith.  While many Christians are still suffering and dieing for their faith around the world, what does that say about Believers today in this country?

 The practice of abortion has become not only socially acceptable, but is also the law of the land!  Where is the outrage from church organizations and individual Believers?  There would be a far greater outcry if the government elected to double our income tax or limited us to only one automobile per family. Where is our collective voice against the murder of our children?

 While same sex marriage and homosexuality are not yet the law of the land, there is a strong contingent making great strides to make that happen, and soon! Instead of exclaiming moral indignation over these issues, the church murmurs under their breath against it, so that hardly anyone can hear. Some congregations and denominations that claim the name of Christ, have even embraced this abomination in their own midst, even so far as into the pulpit. In the world’s eye, the separation between the church and the world has become blurred, with the distinction between the two unable to be identified.

 As Believers, we hold dear all life, and the righteousness of Gods Word.  We should be outraged by all practices and views that are contrary to the teaching of scripture, and voice our views at every opportunity.  By remaining silent, we passively appear to condone ungodliness!

 Church buildings, denominations, organizations and popular pastors are not the church!  Least we forget, WE are the church!! You, me, and all real Believers! Messiah and His truth are our cornerstone. That being said, we need to ask ourselves, do I, or am I willing to stand up for truth in a world full of lies?  Am I willing to be separated from family, friends or job, and suffer social or physical prosecution for what I know to be truth? Or, do I have one foot in the church and the other in the world, being lukewarm in my convictions?

 These are tough questions that all Believers need to ask themselves, as the return of Yeshua draws closer with every passing day. Let us examine our lives!  Do I belong to a congregation that clearly stands for and upholds the truth.  Not only in word, but in deeds and action? If the answer is no, then we need to find one that does . . . and soon! While a congregation provides social interaction, it is not a social club! Teaching, preaching and standing for truth are it’s true function and calling.

 Are we a vital part of that congregation? The Lord liked the church as a “body”, with all of its parts working together as a well oiled machine!  Are we an active part of that body, or are we a spectator that shows up weekly just to feel spiritual?  God has given us spiritual gifts that need to be used within the body. It can be preaching a message, leading the singing, being a prayer partner or washing the toilet.  In the eyes of God, all are of equal value. God is “no respecter of persons”! 

 Are we willing to speak out in a loud individual and collective voice, against practices and beliefs that are contrary to the Word of God, to our friends, family, acquaintances and the world? Are we willing to endure hardship, separation and persecution for the truths sake? The scripture tells us what to expect when we do - “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”  (1Co 2:14  )

 Finally, are we willing to appear foolish for the truths sake by sharing Messiah Jesus with unbelieving family and friends, boldly proclaiming the truth, weather it is well received or not!  And, make no mistake about it, we will be perceived as fools when we do, because the Word of God tells us so (1 Co4 1:21).  Are we willing to become fools for the gospels sake?

 The final battle lines are being drawn as the end of the age quickly approaches.  Are we ready to go to the front lines, clothed in the armor of God, ready to do battle for the truths sake? Or will we remain hidden somewhere in the trenches, luke warm, nor ready to deny the faith, but not willing to stand up for it either. Being a Believer is not a spectator sport! Our participation within the “body” should be our primary focus in life, not a part to be fit in when it’s convenient and comfortable.

 The answers we give to these soul searching questions will have eternal implications for ourselves when we stand before Messiah to give an account of our lives, and for those who may never hear the gospel because we kept silent. No matter what age, physical condition, education, social or financial condition, there is an active role God wants you to fulfil within the Body of Messiah, and it is an awesome responsibility.

Ron Cusano

The Lion’s Tribe