For with the heart it is believed for righteousness, and with the mouth it is confessed for salvation. Romans 10:10, TLV
Proclaim. Chapter 10 of Romans is part of Paul’s fascinating insights into the Jewish and non-Jewish perspective. Paul was one of the most “Orthodox” of Jewish believers in Jesus. As most know, he persecuted the Jewish believers and played some role in Stephen’s stoning (Acts 7:58). Yet, upon his dramatic introduction to his Messiah (Acts 9:1-17) GOD sends him to the most pagan of pagans and the oppressors of Israel, Rome.
Every once in a while, he mentions his Jewish people, especially in chapters 9-11. His longing for his people’s salvation is so clearly evident, sometimes it is heartbreaking.
But I am speaking to you who are Gentiles. Insofar as I am an emissary to the Gentiles, I spotlight my ministry if somehow I might provoke to jealousy my own flesh and blood and save some of them. (Romans 11:13-14, TLV)
and
For I would pray that I myself were cursed, banished from Messiah for the sake of my people—my own flesh and blood … (Acts 9:3, TLV)
So, it is within this context that Paul writes of the importance of not just making a heart decision, “Yes, I believe that Yeshua is the Messiah and LORD and was resurrected” but to proclaim it. To make a stand for their faith. Not just as a title or label, but to demonstrate it. One wonders if he hoped those “closet” Jewish believers would proclaim their faith — especially among the Jewish leadership.
For us today, does that mean wearing a giant cross or say, “Praise the LORD” or “Baruch HaShem” [Bless His Name] at the drop of a hat? Not necessarily. It does mean our behavior should be different. Noticeably different. Because light shines brightest in the darkness.
What does that mean practically? We have integrity, good will, humbleness, joy — albeit quiet joy, at times — forgiveness, grace, mercy, and wisdom. To step away or not participate in inappropriate conversations or cursing. This fruit will produce hunger or revulsion, but it should produce some reaction.
When asked, as inevitably happens, “why are you so different?” then the question can be answered that we believe in the resurrected Jesus, who redeemed us, and are now children of the Creator of the Universe.
Well, that might be a little over the top. GOD will show us what the right words are for that situation. Our proclamation of who Yeshua is, is for His glory and evidence of our salvation.
Shabbat shalom.
PS I love your thoughts and comments. Please, leave them below in the comment section. I don’t always see them on social media.
Good morning, Terri! And good word. Thank you for the daily reminders of who we are and who we should be to the world around us.
Thanks for stopping by, Mary Ellen. You and Benny are beautiful testimonies of living a life of integrity, et. al. God bless you, both.
To proclaim His Name is our duty.. to share His love is our responsibility, to worship in Spirit and truth is our lifestyle.. just my thought
Yes! Proclaiming is our responsibility. May our actions match our words.
But, mind you proclaim with honesty and are not dismissed for ‘protesting too much.” Sadly a lot of preaching these days sounds almost political. “Do as I say, not as I do…” Thanks, Terri, for another thoughtful post.
Unfortunately, that is true. It’s too easy to tell people what to do rather be in the journey together
GOD bless you, Clyde.
Good word. You are right that our actions will speak the loudest. Our walk talks more than our talk talks.
The Peace of Messiah/Christ in us will be what the Holy Spirit uses to introduce those to Him who need peace and rest as we move forward.
Great insights. Talk has become like gnats — it’s everywhere. A “gnat-free” zone will attract more people. It’s sometimes more effective to answer questions than to tell people what you think. Thanks, Diana.