Psalm 119:109

Psalm 119:109

The dangerous Gospel

The psalm-writer has spoken before about the occasions when he has dared to publicly declare his faith in the Lord God. As a consequence of doing this, he has been slandered by rulers (v23). He has even tried speaking to kings about the statutes of the Lord (v46) but, in verse 161, he talks about being persecuted without cause by rulers. In other words, this man has stood up for God’s truth and His commands in the highest of places and faced rejection, persecution and ridicule. As we have seen, it follows that there have been times when even his life has been threatened. He reminds us of many of the Apostles who were fearless and bold in their declaration of their faith and cared little for the status or authority of those they addressed. These godly men also took their lives in their hands and demonstrated their fear of God over the threats of men.

This all makes for uncomfortable reading as some of us consider our own weak and pathetic efforts to stand up for God’s Word. We become apologetic, mince our words and shy away from any kind of confrontation. Instead of boldness, we exhibit weakness and cowardice and a fear of ruffling feathers or causing rifts. The truth is that the Gospel is confrontational, it asks men and women to face their sin and to repent. It advises leaders and rulers that they are accountable to God. It warns of grave dangers ahead for those who do not believe. The Word of the Lord has always been rejected by the godless and ridiculed by the rebellious, it’s no surprise that His messengers get the same treatment. So, to us all I say, fear God not men! Hallelujah!

 

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