I’ve heard the word revival a lot more recently, ever since Charlie Kirk’s funeral. His funeral feels like the beginning of something new, that is, something old rekindled: unashamed public faith in Jesus Christ.
Before his assassination, many people were aware of the bold public witness Charlie was living for Jesus. Others were unaware. Those of us who did not know about Charlie have been amazed and impressed to discover what a brilliant and passionate witness for Jesus Charlie was.
The early news reports after Charlie’s murder painted him as a political activist. Perhaps because the writers were from the secular camp in our culture. They always wash their stories clean of any potentially positive references to Christianity. They diligently work to present a world that is ‘free’ from any religious influence, unless they can paint religion as bad.
There is some truth to the notion that Charlie was a political activist. But it is a half-truth at best. Charlie’s political positions were inspired by his commitment to Christ. Charlie understood that Jesus is Lord, Lord of all, not just private life. For those who are true followers of Jesus, he is Lord of our public life, including our politics.
It’s true, sincere Christians don’t always agree on politics. But we should agree that our faith in Jesus is not a lamp under a bowl. We should agree that Jesus has called us to witness for him publicly. We should agree that Jesus insisted that violence is not the way to promote the gospel.
Charlie didn’t just promote the gospel on social media platforms. He personally went to places where he could engage with people face to face, eye to eye, heart to heart. Charlie was imitating our Lord. Jesus dialogued with people openly and publicly.
Jesus was accused of saying bad things. In fact, he was accused of blasphemy, of slandering God. In our culture, Christians are accused of saying bad things. We are accused of hate speech for our devotion to God and his standard of right and wrong. In fact, if we question identity politics, we are treated as blasphemers against the gods (idols) of our culture.
Jesus reminded us that the cultural leaders hated him, and he warned that they will hate us as well. Jesus modeled a loving boldness that risked personal harm out of concern for those who are lost and confused in this dark and deceptive age. Charlie followed Jesus’ model.
People like Charlie Kirk are reminders to Christians that Jesus’ words are still true. Charlie is a reminder that our task as believers is unchanged. And, Charlie is a reminder that our victory is secured. Charlie didn’t lose. He enjoyed a harvest that is still unfolding here on earth and he will enjoy the presence of our Lord in heaven forever.
When we speak the truth in love, we share the spiritual harvest. We share Jesus’ eternal victory. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16, CSB).
May the Lord inspire us and empower us to share the good news about Jesus with confidence,
Brother Richard
brotherrichardsblog.com 