Greg Chandler
03/09/14
The United States has never been a Christian nation. Its founders wisely created a secular government that is operated and maintained by elected citizens rather than religious officials. Seeing the problems created in other countries by an officially sanctioned religion, the founders refused to establish a state church and embedded every American’s right to freedom of religion within the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Those same founders; however, were very religious, with many professing belief in Jesus Christ. The nation’s earliest documents reveal the influence that Christianity played in the lives of these men and their influence set the nation on a course where the name of Christ was respected by most and reverenced by many. Presidents often allowed their faith shine in times of national crisis. Franklin Roosevelt, who led the United States through both the Great Depression and World War II, publicly prayed on the radio airwaves. As a religious revival swept the U.S. in the presidency of Dwight Eisenhower, the pledge to the flag was altered to state that the country is “One nation under God.” Even early television programs bore out a respect for the name of Christ with vain use of His name strictly prohibited. Even programs where religious songs were sung often left out the name of Christ for fear of offending.
Times change. A nation that once reverenced the name of Christ is quickly losing its respect. The name of Jesus is used as a byword on many television programs, with some going so far as to turn Him into a comical character. The government that once had members who honored the Lord now has a court system intent on removing any vestige of Jesus or Christianity from the public square. Many now treat Christianity with contempt while showing tolerance toward other religions and abstaining from any type of mockery concerning their beliefs. While such changes are saddening and troubling, there is one thing that has not changed – Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation.
Though the world may be darkening, the light of Jesus is still shining. Now, just as in years past, it is important to remember His words: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Though many may be tolerant of other religions, these religions do not provide escape from sin or the hope of Heaven. While religious leaders may do good works and provide for the needy, they do not provide the salvation that can only be found through the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ. It is important for every man and woman to honestly consider the necessity of Jesus Christ for salvation. Just as the Apostle Peter recognized Him for who He is, so must everyone make the good confession of belief in Jesus: “He [Christ] said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:15-16).” Upon acceptance of Christ as Lord, it is then of necessity to show that acceptance through baptism for the remission of sins. Note Jesus words when He stated, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16). This plan does not change no matter how much change the world may experience.
As the world darkens, what does this mean for those who have already made this commitment to the Lord? As Christianity comes more and more under attack, what should the faithful in Christ do? The answer is to simply allow one’s light to shine even brighter. Through much of its history, Christianity has known persecution. This is why the Lord stated, “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:11-12). The world’s persecution must never diminish a Christian’s desire to serve the Lord. What may be unpleasant and painful in this life will be richly rewarded in the life to come.
Jesus Christ does not change. Christianity does not change. While governments come and go, the truths established by God will remain rock solid. Though many in the world may turn against Him, Christ is not diminished. Though wickedness at times appears to be winning the battle, the battle is already won and Jesus Christ is the victor. Those who faithfully submit to Him and follow His ways will share in this victory. What greater blessing could one ask than to have the love of a Savior like this and a promise of life with Him forever? Jesus Christ is the only way to this salvation.