What's in a Name?Sample

Suffering for Jesus’ name’s sake

If we belong to Jesus Christ, we bear his name. This is a great honor. But since many people do not believe in Him, bearing his name can also lead to us being despised or persecuted. The Bible makes clear that we should not be surprised if we are hated by non-believers. Jesus told his disciples: “All these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me” (John 15:21).

If we are insulted for the name of Christ, the Bible calls us “blessed”. “If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name” (1 Peter 4:16). But if we suffer for doing evil, this is completely different. Then Jesus’ name may even be blasphemed because of us! As Christians, we are being watched closely. Our behavior should be blameless and not give others cause to slander Jesus’ name. On the contrary, “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Are you a Christian? Do others know you are a Christian? How do they respond?