The earliest Christians were opposed and hated by the culture. The early church was actually faithful and influential in the culture. They lived faithfully and had a large impact.

We have a sense that opposition to Christ and to the church is growing; that our culture is more openly contrary to us.

It’s nothing new.

Every generation for the last 2,000 years has dealt with opposition from the culture. If we feel like that, it’s nothing new. It’s what brothers and sisters in Christ have always faced.

We’re going to see this morning that the gospel of Jesus instigates strong contrary passions among those who are ignorant of it. Our situation that we face today is not all that dissimilar from the situation Paul faced.

Most people are still ignorant of the truth of the gospel. Many people are contrary and opposed to it. Yet what they often oppose is a caricature of Christianity. It’s not really the real thing.

What’s the antidote for ignorance?

It’s right information.

The questions for us this morning are:

• Do we see opposition as a reason to escape or do we see it as an opportunity to clarify the message of Jesus?
• Is it an opportunity for ministry?
• Is it an opportunity for witness?

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