So keep your mind on Jesus, who put up with many insults from sinners. Then you won't get discouraged and give up.
In Defence of Jesus?
by David Cross
Hebrews 12:3, CEV
It can be very hard for followers of Jesus today to hear disrespect or mockery directed towards Him. This, of course, is nothing new and is indeed likely to worsen in these end days. When we hear such insults, it’s right to graciously make clear our personal confidence in the person of Jesus, but He doesn’t actually need our defence.
While on earth, Jesus was unperturbed by criticism, because He knew He was right. This was not arrogance but an utter certainty in the truth, both of His claims about Himself and in the truth of His teaching. These truths are unchanging and eternal, and able to be known through revelation in every age by those whose hearts are open to Him.
Interestingly, in some world religions, there is an aggressive demand by many adherents for public respect towards the founders of their faith, with sometimes a violent response to any criticism. I suggest that such a response is, in part, an indication of insecurity in their hearts with regard to the foundational tenets of their faith. The Body of Christ today doesn’t need to fear criticism of Jesus, if we simply remain confident that He alone is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
David Cross David is part of the Executive Leadership of Ellel Ministries, with particular responsibility for the Ellel centres in Western Europe. He is married to Denise and they have three grown up children and eight grandchildren. David has been a civil engineer and ski-touring instructor in the Highlands of Scotland. He is passionate about the teaching and practice of the healing and deliverance ministry of Jesus and has written several books: Soul Ties, Trapped by Control, God’s Covering, The Dangers of Alternative Ways to Healing(co-authored with John Berry), an A to Z Guide to the Healing Ministry, What`s Wrong with Human Rights? and, most recently, God`s Way out of Depression. You can follow a daily thought from David on Twitter: @dmcross62
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