Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ… 1 Peter 4:10-11

The life of Jesus Christ was radical in His day and continues to be a radical example today. He was not pressured by the traditions and social customs of His own culture when they went against the Word of God.  He was willing to stand apart from the crowd, yet could say, “Can any of you prove me guilty of sin?” (John 8:46). His life displayed complete honesty and soul‑penetrating insight into the lives of His contemporaries, and He was not always loved for it. He often faced hostile criticism but withstood it through constant communion with His Father in heaven.

Noah faced ridicule from his neighbors when he obeyed God’s plan to build a ridiculous boat. Many of the prophets in the Old Testament were very unusual, often because of their obedience to unusual requests of them from God. Their lives were frequently threatened because they challenged people to turn their hearts back to God.

God still uses some of His children to challenge others. The backlash against those God has appointed as challengers is often painful and alienating. Paul wrote, “…If I were trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10). Yet if God has gifted you as a challenger, take heart and remain in constant prayer and study so you will not be guilty of sin in your difficult task.

 

Resource reading: Daniel 1:8-21