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There is a growing sense of embarrassment in our fellowship over what we believe and teach. Some folks, wanting to be accepted by the denominational world, cringe when preachers teach the truth on subjects like the role of women, the use of the instrument, and baptism. They no longer want their preachers to show the difference between what the Bible teaches and what the denominations advocate. In other words, some folks have become ashamed of the truth and ashamed of those who actually take a stand for truth. They want to be “politically correct” and “doctrinally neutral” in order to mingle among the modem religions without repercussions.
It’s interesting to me that Timothy may have entertained some of the “don’t make waves” kind of thinking when he preached in Ephesus. Paul was aware of his tendencies, so he wrote a rather strong encouragement for the young preacher to teach the truth. Here’s what he said: “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our lord, or of me His prisoner; but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God” (2 Tim. 1:7,8).
Not only is “acceptance” a motivation for the present shame we are witnessing, but there is also a desire to avoid any kind of suffering that lies behind the willingness to compromise truth for error. People will leave us alone if we don’t take a firm stand against the sin and error in which they have become enslaved. Timothy seems to have been temped to exhibit this kind of shame. What about us? Are we ashamed of the gospel and those who preach it plainly?
Guy Orbison, Jr.