"... You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers. And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved." – Jesus, Matthew 24:9-13
The times we are living in now clearly give us a sign that we must all boldly stand up for righteousness. People are now rewriting history, passing fake stories as if they were true, fighting to turn commonly-known right virtues and values as wrong, and are openly violent and rude when corrected. We see these things happen not just in one country but apparently all around the world.
Called to the Frontlines
Christians are called to the frontlines to make sure that those who are oppressed and abused will be defended. We are told to speak up for those who can't speak for themselves. We are warned that the last days will be terrible, but we should not fret – rather we must fight for what's right, and stand up for Christ.
Brothers and sisters, we as Christians are called to speak up against atrocities that destroy the lives of people. The very people whom Christ died for – you, me, your neighbour, and the people we dislike – are precious to Him, and we must fight for their lives. We must stand up for righteousness in the world today, proving our faith in Christ.
An Instruction for Us
Friends, Paul gave Timothy an instruction that wasn't for him alone to obey. It was meant for all the Christians who would come after the young man.
"You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!" (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
We must stand up for Christ in this generation. We must commit ourselves to boldly follow Christ in the face of hardships, staying away from all unrighteous motives and actions.
Are you a Christian? Then stand up for Christ wherever you are.
In your home, in your campus, in your community, in your workplace. Wherever you are, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).
