Do Not be Ashamed to Own Christ Before People
- Jan 17
- 3 min read
Rev. Tse Amable | January 17 2026 | Acts 22:1-21
KEY VERSE: “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia…. I was thoroughly trained in the law of our fathers and was just as zealous for God as any of you are today,” (Acts 22:3, NIV)
MESSAGE:
When Apostle Paul began his defence, the first thing he spoke about was his earthly background. He revealed his ethnic identity, where he was born and brought up and other pertinent personal details. The reason this information came up first was that Apostle Paul knew the background of the persons before whom he was standing. He knew that information could give him an advantage. Perhaps his case would receive favourable consideration.
Sometimes we are afraid to declare our stand for the Lord openly. This happens when we are so scared that disclosing that information will result in persecution or the denial of certain benefits. Other times, we are afraid of being labelled “CHRI-FE”, “ANTI-SOCIAL” or any such thing.
Owning Jesus Christ and His mission on earth before the people of the world (e. g., in the workplace, market, school, community, etc.) has clear implications. Sometimes, it saves you from being involved with criminals and bad people. They leave you out of their corrupt and evil schemes. Above all, identifying yourself as a follower of Jesus Christ has rewards in heaven. Jesus Christ said, “Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32-33 NIV).
Identifying yourself as a follower of Jesus Christ carries great reward. Therefore, do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of any of his servants who are being persecuted. But join with the saints in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
If you were standing before people who strongly oppose the gospel, would you have the courage to openly identify yourself as a follower of Jesus Christ? Remember the words of Scripture: “They overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives even when faced with death” (Revelation 12:11 NASB). PRAYER:
Father, I thank You for everything about me, from my ethnicity, parental background, education and prior experiences in life. Help me to use these credentials to witness to others so that they can have faith in You as Redeemer and Saviour. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen!
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: BORN
In the Greek text, the word Gennaō means to be born, to come into life, to enter the world through a real beginning. It points to origin and identity, not reputation or achievements.
In Acts 22:3, Paul used his birth and background to build understanding with the people before him. He spoke in a way they could recognise. He did not present a polished image. He presented his true story. God often uses your origin, family story, upbringing, education, and experiences as part of your witness. Your birth did not happen by chance. God placed you in a context that can serve His purpose when you surrender it to Him.
Reflect on this:
What part of your story do you try to hide when you speak about faith? Bring your full story to Christ. Ask God to use your origin and experiences to point others to Him.
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