Earlier this year in Connecticut, a teacher was placed on administrative leave for the offense of displaying a Crucifix in her classroom. Administrators asked Marisol Arroyo-Castro to remove the Crucifix, but she refused. Her lawyers have since filed a federal lawsuit.
It’s a moment that reminds us that Christians are still being asked to hide their faith. How many times do we Christians feel that we have to hide our faith and politely obey when someone commands us to “keep that religion stuff to yourself”? When such a moment arises, will we love Jesus publicly, like this teacher does?
While there may be a pattern of Christians increasingly feeling like they need to hide their faith, it is actually the opposite of what the Apostles did. When Peter was confronted by the Sanhedrin and commanded to no longer preach the Gospel, his answer should be one we all echo: “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)
When faced with persecution, the Early Church did not fight back with hostility and violence, but rather with boldness, one born of the Holy Spirit. After another run-in with the religious authorities, the Apostles prayed, “And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness.” (Acts 4:29)
Our boldness should be rooted in prayer, with trust in the Lord, and above all, in love. Let us pray for those who oppose us in our expression of our faith, for those who deny the Lord, and for those who would rather we give up our trust in God.
Here are some additional Bible verses to meditate on as we live out our faith boldly:
“God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and self-control. Do not be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord.” (2 Tim 1:7–8)
“...that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel… that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.” (Eph 6:19–20)
“...I am not ashamed of the gospel...” (Rom 1:16)
“...but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect...” (1 Pet 3:15)
