In this time filled with so many timid and effete men in leadership positions in the American Christian Church we are reminded of some words written by Dr. Walter Martin (1928-1989):

the New Testament itself, the very cradle of Christianity, reflects in a startling way the fact that the faith of Jesus Christ was built and nourished upon the controversy which it provoked. It was said of the early Christians that they “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6); indeed the message of the Cross itself is offensive and controversial by nature. (The Kingdom of the Cults, 473)

With this in mind Apprising Ministries offers the following inspirational words from Charles Spurgeon as an exhortation that after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm... (Ephesians 6:13-14)

Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. (Hebrews 11:26)

Nowadays the Truth that God has revealed seems of less account with men than their own thoughts and dreams, and they who still believe Christ’s faithful Word shall have it said of them, “I was a stranger and you took me in” (Matthew 25:35, KJV). When you see revealed Truth, as it were, walking about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented, and no man with a good word for it, then is the hour come to avow it because it is Christ’s Truth, and to prove your fidelity by counting the reproach of Christ greater riches than all the treasures of Egypt.

O, scorn on those who only believe what everybody else believes, just because they must be in the swim with the majority. These are but dead fish borne on the current, and they will be washed away to a shameful end. As living fish swim against the stream, so do living Christians pursue Christ's Truth against the set and current of the times, defying alike the ignorance and the culture of the age. It is the believer’s honor, the chivalry of a Christian, to be the steadfast friend of Truth when all other men have forsaken it.

(Charles Spurgeon, At the Master’s Feet, January 7)

See also:

ON BEARING REPROACH