What sort of an Army? (2)

What sort of an Army?

‘… an Army that is unafraid to share the gospel, not only together but when we are as, individuals in the workplace, the school, or college.’

Occasionally we get the impression that those around us are ashamed of the Gospel. The reality must surely be different. We certainly have no shame when we meet together in worship , last weekend saw Salvationists assembled in the New Town Hall in Cumbernauld from numerous Corps celebrating 40years of the Corps in that town. No shame – boldness and confidence were the standard of the weekend – even on the Saturday when fun was the order of the day. The local press understood the message of the Salvation Army by quoting that the Salvation Army is ‘Christianity with it’s sleeves rolled up’. Salvationists and fellow Christians confident in their Saviour and confident in each other. This is not unique of course when we join for worship and the word we derive strength for the days ahead and know we have met with the body of Christ.

Fast forward to the schoolroom of Monday afternoon, or the office of Wednesday morning, or even the family home at meal times. Where is the confidence when we stand alone, facing ignorance or ridicule? Let’s also acknowledge that this is unlikely to improve culturally as we move forward in a pluralist, secularist society.

The confidence to share the Gospel comes from the depth of relationship we have with Jesus. Nothing else. Our Sunday teaching and worship, linked with good strong pastoral care gives God’s people the grounding in scripture they need, our own spiritual walk enables us to stand tall and strong in the confidence of a gospel that has changed our lives from selfishness to selflessness.

Paul, in Romans 1:16, states ‘For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.’ Why was he unashamed? Because he had experienced the transforming power of Jesus – and wanted others to experience it as well. We should have the confidence of Paul because we have an unfailing God, a constant companion. We should be both unashamed of the Gospel and shameless in its proclamation.