Stand Up And Be Counted
A short time ago I sat in an educational meeting of public school teachers and heard a noted speaker. One of the things he praised most in teachers of late was that they are getting to the point where they will "stand up and be counted." Teachers and schools in general have suffered in the past, and are suffering today because teachers have lacked the moral courage to stand on vital issues.
When the speaker made this statement, my thoughts ran immediately to religion and the church which is experiencing similar conditions today. We have so many who do not have the moral courage and the convictions to "stand up and be counted" when the issues affect the church and the salvation of men.
The Apostle Paul said, "Stand fast in the faith." Jude said "Contend earnestly for the faith." Peter said, "Be ready to give an answer to every man that asketh you." I am sure that many teachers do not speak out because they are afraid. Is that the reason we, as Christians, fail to speak out? If so, perhaps it would be well to read Rev. 21:8.
Preachers, who have not the convictions and the moral courage to "stand up and be counted," ought to either change their convictions or quit preaching. They are setting the wrong examples for those they teach and influence, and the preacher and those whom he influences will finally be lost