Dangerous

Are you dangerous?

A recent article reports that Germany, the land of Martin Luther, has become increasingly critical of the 1.3 million evangelical Christians living there. The media has become more and more hostile to believers in Jesus. According to one German seminary leader, they are often described as “dangerous fundamentalists.” Why? They “are misfits in the framework of a totally tolerant society . . . [who] evangelize and . . . stand for absolute truth.”

The suffering Servant is depicted in the words of Isaiah 53. The prophet was given special inspiration to capture what Jesus faced as He brought His “intolerant” message of salvation for all people. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). His claims of not only knowing the truth but being the truth Himself led to His harsh treatment by those He came to save.

As we look at Isaiah’s words, we see what Jesus endured and also what those of us who believe in Him may encounter due to our dangerous faith:

• Despised and rejected (v.3)—Like our Savior, we who follow Him will be despised by those who do not accept Him or His truth claims.

• Beaten so we could be whole . . . healed (v.5)—Believers through the ages have experienced brutal treatment and even death because of their devotion to Jesus.

• Honors of a victorious soldier (v.12)—Though we may face persecution in this life, one day we will be united with the suffering Servant who has been elevated “to the place of highest honor” (Philippians 2:9).

Following Jesus will prove to be dangerous. But the honor of suffering for Him is merely a prelude to the untold joy of reigning with Him forever.

Taken from “Our Daily Journey”