John chapter 7 verse 10 informs us Jesus made a low-profile journey to Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles. And the preceding verses clarify his strategy. He didn’t want to prematurely attract the attention of the religious leaders who wanted to kill him. But then, verse 14 states that at a time near the midpoint of the eight-day celebration, he went to the Temple – the epicenter of the week’s activities – and began to teach. He went to the most visible venue and publicly proclaimed his message.
He clearly was unafraid. On the other hand, verses 11-13 tell us he had supporters among the gathered crowds who wouldn’t speak openly about him specifically because of their fear. So, we see Jesus managing his public testimony strategically while those in the crowd restrained theirs in order to protect themselves.
And that reminds me of something that happened yesterday.
My wife and I went out to breakfast with another couple who are lifelong friends and partners in ministry. So, our table conversation was filled with Jesus-talk as we caught up on all the wonderful things God has done and is doing in and through our lives.
But at one point, I caught myself thinking about the single woman seated very close by at the table next to us. I began to wonder how our conversation – which was clearly spilling over into her space – was being received. I instinctively lowered my volume and became more deliberate with my choice of words. And I’m not sure that I was managing my testimony strategically. I suspect it was out of fear – not of physical harm but diminished reputation.
Don’t get me wrong. I totally understand the appropriateness of exercising consideration regarding when, where, and how to vocalize my love for Christ. I’m an advocate for believers being mindful and measured – strategic – about our faith-sharing. But honestly, I don’t think that was what was going on in my soul.
Although I thankfully live in a country that enjoys freedom of religion, the tide of opinion has definitely turned in recent years against the acceptability of public confessions of Christian faith. Expressions of nearly any other viewpoint are celebrated, but open declarations of belief in Jesus are increasingly frowned upon. And Jesus-followers who go public are generally considered fools and usually worse.
I think my thoughts and actions yesterday were more reflective of a concern for my reputation than kingdom purpose. And that’s something I just cannot allow to take root in my heart. I choose today to live out my faith strategically under the direction of the Holy Spirit without surrendering to the fear of man.