From “How to become a Christian”: Chapter 23 – Becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ – Some introductory points
Also, have you noticed that it is the name of Jesus specifically which unbelievers do not like. Even Christians feel squeamish about using the name of Jesus in front of others. People will fairly happily say the word “God”, but not “Jesus”. That is a cultural pressure, but we must refuse to be hemmed in by it. We must resolve to speak His name without embarrassment or shame, whoever we are with, or wherever we are.
In Great Britain it is culturally acceptable to show passion about a football team, but not about following Jesus. That may be our culture, but it’s still wrong. We need to disobey the pressures of our culture and obey Jesus instead. Let Ezra be your model. Make it your aim to learn God’s Word with dedication and to put it into practice in your life:
For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.
Ezra 7:10 (NIV)
