Choosing God Over the Crowd: The Price of Upholding Faith

What if standing firm in your faith meant going against the tide of popular opinion? Join us on this enlightening episode of the Crossroads Collective Podcast as we tackle the profound struggle of choosing God over the crowd. Discover the bold actions of those who have walked this path before us, from the steadfast apostles in Acts 4 to the insightful teachings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. We'll delve deep into key scriptures like Matthew 10:32 and Romans 12:2, exploring the transformative power of living boldly for Christ and the daily call to take up our cross as described in Luke 9:23.

Journey with us as we highlight the importance of valuing faithfulness over worldly approval, drawing inspiration from historical figures like Martin Luther and biblical heroes such as Daniel. By examining the resilience of these individuals, we uncover the power of grounding our lives in Scripture and prayer. With reflections on the Apostle Paul's struggles and Jesus' empathy for our weaknesses, this segment encourages believers to surround themselves with positive influences and to run the race with endurance, focusing on Jesus, who endured the ultimate sacrifice for the joy set before Him.

In a world obsessed with approval, how do we prioritize God's applause over human praise? Reflecting on Galatians 1:10, we discuss the necessity of making sometimes unpopular choices to serve Christ wholeheartedly. Drawing inspiration from Tozer and the early Christians in Acts, we emphasize the importance of a committed relationship with God and intentional time spent in His presence. Encouraging listeners to embrace their role as salt and light, we highlight how our faithful witness can profoundly impact those around us. Join us as we close in prayer, committing to stand strong in our faith and to continue seeking God's guidance and strength in every step of our journey.

Chapters

• 0:00 Choosing God Over the Crowd
• 10:27 Choosing Faithfulness Over Worldly Approval
• 23:00 Living for God, Not Approval
• 29:13 Walking in Faith Together

Transcript

Speaker 0: 0:34

Hello everyone and welcome to another episode of the Crossroads Collective Podcast. I'm Javier, and today we're diving into a topic that has been at the heart of Christian living for centuries choosing God over the crowd and the cost that comes with upholding our faith. This is a journey we all must take at some point in our walk with Christ, where we face the choice between standing firm in our beliefs or blending in with the crowd. But before we delve into this important discussion, let's take a moment to seek God's presence with us. Let's pray. Heavenly Father, we come before you today with open hearts and minds. We ask for your guidance as we explore what it means to choose you over the world. Grant us the courage to stand firm in our faith even when the road is difficult. May this discussion bring us closer to you and strengthen our resolve to live according to your word. In Jesus' name, we pray Amen.

Speaker 0: 1:24

Choosing God over the crowd has always been a challenge. It's something that has never really changed from the days of the early Christians, who faced persecution for their faith, to the more subtle pressures we face in today's world. Jesus spoke about this in the Gospel of Matthew 10, verse 32, where he said so everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father, who is in heaven. This verse is both an encouragement and a challenge. It reminds us that our faith isn't meant to be hidden away. It's meant to be lived out boldly and unapologetically. But why is it so difficult to choose God over the crowd?

Speaker 0: 2:00

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, provides some insight. In Romans, chapter 12, verse 2, he writes Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind that by testing, you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. The world constantly pressures us to conform, to fit in, to go with the flow, but Paul calls us to something different, to be transformed by the renewal of our minds. This transformation isn't a one-time event. It's an ongoing process that involves daily choices to follow Christ, even when it's countercultural. This brings us to the first point of our discussion the reality of the cost. There is a price to pay when we choose God over the crowd. Jesus made this clear in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 9, verse 23,. And he said to all If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. Taking up our cross means being willing to endure hardship, persecution and even rejection for the sake of Christ. It's not a popular message, especially in a world that often values comfort and acceptance above all else, but it's the path that Jesus calls us to walk.

Speaker 0: 3:07

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a theologian who lived during the time of Nazi Germany, wrote extensively about this cost In his book, the Cost of Discipleship. He famously stated when Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die. Bonhoeffer wasn't just speaking metaphorically. He lived this reality. He was arrested and ultimately executed for his involvement in a plot to overthrow Hitler. For Bonhoeffer, choosing God over the crowd meant resisting a regime that stood in stark opposition to the teachings of Christ, even when it cost him his life. Now most of us may not face such extreme circumstances, but the principle remains the same. There will be times when following Jesus means standing alone, going against the grain and even facing ridicule or opposition. It might mean choosing integrity over popularity, truth over convenience or love over hatred. Each of these choices, though difficult, reflects our commitment to Christ.

Speaker 0: 4:00

In the New Testament, we also see the apostles facing this challenge. After Jesus' resurrection and ascension, they were preaching the gospel boldly In Acts, chapter 4,. Peter and John were arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. They were commanded not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But their response found in Acts, chapter 4, verses 19 to 20, was this Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard. The apostles understood that their allegiance was first and foremost to God, not to human authority. They were willing to face imprisonment, beatings and even death, because they believed that Jesus was worth it. This conviction is what fueled the early church's growth, despite intense persecution.

Speaker 0: 4:48

So what does this look like for us today? The truth is, most of us won't face a literal fiery furnace or be dragged before a council to defend our faith. Yet the challenges we encounter can feel just as daunting. It might be the pressure to conform to societal norms that go against biblical principles. It might be the fear of being labeled as intolerant or narrow-minded because of our beliefs. It might even be the struggle to maintain integrity in a workplace where cutting corners is the norm.

Speaker 0: 5:15

One of the key aspects of choosing God over the crowd is understanding that we are not called to be popular but to be faithful. Jesus himself said in John chapter 15, verses 18 to 19, if the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own, but because you are not of the world but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. These are strong words and they remind us that our identity is found in Christ, not in the approval of others. But let's be clear choosing God over the crowd doesn't mean we isolate ourselves or adopt a holier-than-thou attitude.

Speaker 0: 5:51

Jesus was known as a friend of sinners and he engaged with those whom society often shunned. The difference is that Jesus never compromised on the truth. He loved people where they were but always pointed them toward God's standard of righteousness. In John chapter 8, when Jesus encounters the woman caught in adultery, he says to her Neither do I condemn you. Go and from now on sin no more. Jesus offered grace but also called for repentance. In our walk with Christ, we are called to embody this balance, engaging with the world around us without conforming to its patterns.

Speaker 0: 6:24

The Apostle Peter addresses this in his first epistle. In 1 Peter 2, verses 11-12, he writes Beloved, I urge you, as sojourners and exiles, to abstain from the passions of the flesh which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. Our lives should be a testimony to God's transformative power, drawing others toward Him, even if they don't understand or agree with us initially. Charles Spurgeon, the great preacher, once said you cannot be Christ's servant if you are not willing to follow Him, cross and all. What. Do you crave A crown? Then it must be a crown of thorns if you are to be like Him. Do you want to be lifted up? So you shall, but it will be upon a cross. Spurgeon's words remind us that following Christ is a path of surrender and self-denial. It's not about seeking the approval or accolades of the crowd, but about being faithful to the one who gave his life for us. This doesn't mean that we walk this path alone.

Speaker 0: 7:25

One of the blessings of the Christian faith is the community of believers, the church. We are called to encourage and support one another as we strive to live out our faith in a world that often pulls us in the opposite direction. In the book of Hebrews, chapter 10, verses 24 to 25, we are exhorted and let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near. When we face the pressure to conform, we need the encouragement and accountability that comes from being in fellowship with other believers. One of the great examples of this is found in the early church, as described in the book of Acts.

Speaker 0: 8:04

After Peter and John were released by the Sanhedrin, they returned to their fellow believers and reported all that had happened. Acts, chapter 4, verse 24, tells us. And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them. They didn't respond with fear or discouragement. Instead, they came together in prayer, seeking God's strength and boldness to continue proclaiming the gospel. This is the kind of support we need in our own lives. When we face opposition or the temptation to go along with the crowd. We can draw strength from the community of believers. We can pray for one another, encourage each other to stand firm and remind one another of the hope we have in Christ.

Speaker 0: 8:46

And let's not forget the role of the Holy Spirit in this journey. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be our helper and guide. In John, chapter 16, verse 13, he says when the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on His own authority, but whatever he hears, he will speak and he will declare to you the things that are to come. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live out our faith boldly and provides us with the discernment we need to navigate the complexities of this world. It's the Spirit who gives us the courage to speak the truth in love, even when it's uncomfortable. It's the Spirit who strengthens us to endure hardship for the sake of the gospel. And it's the Spirit who reminds us of our identity in Christ, that we are children of God, loved and redeemed by His grace.

Speaker 0: 9:31

So as we walk this path of choosing God over the crowd, we rely not on our own strength but on the power of the Holy Spirit working within us In the face of temptation and opposition. We remember the words of Paul in Philippians 4.13,. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. This isn't about achieving our personal goals or desires. It's about finding the strength to live faithfully in a world that often calls us in the opposite direction of God's will. Let's talk about some practical steps we can take to help us stand firm in our faith. One of the most important things we can do is to immerse ourselves in scripture. The psalmist writes in Psalm 119, verse 11, I have stored up your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. When God's word is deeply rooted in our hearts, it becomes a wellspring of wisdom and guidance in moments of decision. It equips us to discern right from wrong and gives us the courage to choose the path that honors God.

Speaker 0: 10:27

Martin Luther, the reformer, understood this well. When he was summoned before the Diet of Worms in 1521 and pressured to recant his teachings, luther famously replied Unless. I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason. I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other. My conscience is captive to the word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. God help me. Amen. Luther's bold stand was grounded in his deep conviction that scripture is the ultimate authority. He knew that even in the face of tremendous pressure, he had to choose God's truth over the demands of the crowd. So let's follow Luther's example and make Scripture the foundation of our lives.

Speaker 0: 11:10

This means regularly reading, studying and meditating on the Word of God. It means allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to us through the pages of the Bible, shaping our hearts and minds so that we become more like Christ. When we know the truth, we are better equipped to stand firm when the world tries to sway us. Another practical step is to cultivate a life of prayer. Prayer is our lifeline to God. It's in prayer that we find the strength and guidance we need to navigate the challenges of this world. In Philippians, chapter 4, verses 6 to 7, paul encourages us Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything. By prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds. In Christ Jesus. When we bring our concerns and fears to God, in prayer, we find His peace and assurance, even when the world around us is in turmoil.

Speaker 0: 12:02

In the book of Daniel, we see the power of prayer in the life of Daniel himself. When a decree was issued that anyone who prayed to any god or man other than King Darius would be thrown into the lion's den, daniel didn't panic or compromise his faith. Instead, we read in Daniel, chapter 6, verse 10,. When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house, where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously. Daniel chose God over the crowd, even when it meant facing a den of lions. His commitment to prayer was unwavering and God honored his faithfulness.

Speaker 0: 12:40

Like Daniel, we too can develop a consistent prayer life that sustains us in moments of trial. It doesn't mean that we won't face challenges or that everything will always go smoothly, but it does mean that we have a source of strength and comfort that the world cannot give. When we pray, we are reminded that we are not alone, that God is with us, guiding us and providing for us every step of the way. In addition to scripture and prayer, we need to be mindful of the influences we allow into our lives. The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians, chapter 15, verse 33, do not be deceived. Bad company ruins good morals. The people we surround ourselves with, the media we consume and the voices we listen to all have an impact on our thinking and behavior. If we're constantly filling our minds with the world's messages, it's going to be much harder to choose God over the crowd. That doesn't mean we isolate ourselves from the world. Jesus prayed for his disciples in John, chapter 17, verse 15, saying I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. We are called to be in the world, but not of it. This means being intentional about the influences we allow into our lives. It means surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who will encourage and challenge us in our faith. It means being discerning about the media we consume and the messages we accept.

Speaker 0: 13:58

Now you might be thinking this all sounds good in theory, but what about when the cost feels too high? That's a valid question and it's one that many believers have wrestled with throughout history. Even the Apostle Paul faced this tension. In his second letter to the Corinthians, paul opens up about his struggles, saying in 2 Corinthians 1, verses 8-9, for we were so utterly burdened, beyond our strength, that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death, but that was to make us rely not on ourselves, but on God, who raises the dead. Paul's honesty shows us that choosing God over the crowd can lead to moments of deep struggle and despair, but it also reveals the purpose behind those struggles to teach us to rely on God, who is our source of life and hope. There will be times when the cost of following Christ feels overwhelming. It might mean losing a friendship, facing rejection or making a decision that leads to personal sacrifice. In those moments, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus understands our struggles.

Speaker 0: 15:32

Hebrews, chapter 4, verse 15, tells us. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who, in every respect, has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Jesus walked this path before us. He knows what it means to be tempted, to be rejected and to suffer for the sake of righteousness. When we feel the weight of the cost, we can look to Jesus, who not only sympathizes with our weaknesses but also provides us with the strength to endure. The writer of Hebrews encourages us in chapter 12, verses 1 to 2, saying Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and sin which clings so closely and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who, for the joy that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Jesus endured the cross because he looked beyond the suffering to the joy that lay ahead, and in the same way, we can find hope in knowing that the struggles we face now are not the end of the story.

Speaker 0: 16:36

The Apostle Peter also offers words of encouragement in his first epistle. In 1 Peter, chapter 4, verses 12 to 14, he writes Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you as though something strange were happening to you, but rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed because the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. Peter reminds us that suffering for the sake of Christ is not something to be feared or avoided. Instead, it's an opportunity to share in Christ's sufferings and to look forward with hope to the glory that will be revealed.

Speaker 0: 17:15

One of the most compelling stories in the New Testament that illustrates this is the story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. In the book of Acts, chapter 7, we read about how Stephen, full of faith and the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaimed the gospel to the religious leaders. His words were met with fierce opposition and ultimately he was stoned to death. But in his final moments, stephen looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Even as he faced death, Stephen's focus was on Christ, and his faithfulness serves as a powerful testimony to the reality of choosing God over the crowd. The story of Stephen challenges us to consider where our focus lies. Are we so caught up in seeking the approval of others or avoiding conflict that we lose sight of the eternal perspective, or are we, like Stephen, looking to Jesus, finding our hope and courage in Him, even in the face of adversity?

Speaker 0: 18:06

One of the profound truths of the Christian faith is that God uses our faithfulness, even in difficult circumstances, to impact the lives of others. Think about the Apostle Paul. Before his conversion, he was present at Stephen's stoning, approving of his execution. Yet, in God's sovereign plan, paul's life was transformed by the gospel and he went on to become one of the greatest missionaries of all time. We never know how God might use our stand for truth and righteousness to bring about change in the lives of those around us. And this brings us to another important aspect of choosing God over the crowd our witness to the world.

Speaker 0: 18:40

Jesus said in Matthew, chapter 5, verses 14 to 16, you are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house In the same way. Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father, who is in heaven. Our lives, when lived faithfully to God, serve as a beacon of light in a world that desperately needs hope and truth. This doesn't mean that we will always see the immediate impact of our choices.

Speaker 0: 19:12

Sometimes, standing firm in our faith may feel like it's making little difference, especially when the world seems indifferent or even hostile to our message, but we can trust that God is at work in ways we cannot see. Isaiah, chapter 55, verses 10 to 11, assures us. For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there, but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth. It shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. God's word is powerful and effective, and he uses our faithfulness to accomplish his purposes, even when we don't see the full picture. Corrie Ten Boom once said you can never learn that Christ is all you need until Christ is all you have. In the midst of suffering and loss, corrie discovered the depth of God's presence and the sufficiency of His grace. Her story continues to inspire believers around the world to stand firm in their faith, to choose God over the crowd, even when it means walking through the darkest valleys.

Speaker 0: 20:15

As we reflect on the stories of Stephen, corrie Ten Boom and countless others who have chosen to follow Christ, regardless of the cost. We are reminded that we are part of a greater story. We are part of a kingdom that is not of this world, a kingdom that calls us to live by different values, to pursue a different kind of success. Jesus said in Matthew, chapter 6, verse 33, but seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Our primary allegiance is to God's kingdom, and that shapes how we live, how we make decisions and how we respond to the pressures around us.

Speaker 0: 20:49

So how do we keep this eternal perspective when the pressure to conform feels overwhelming? One way is to regularly remind ourselves of the hope we have in Christ. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians, chapter 4, verses 16 to 18, so we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day, for this light, momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory, beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen, for the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. The challenges we face now are temporary, but the glory that awaits us is eternal. Keeping our eyes fixed on this truth helps us to endure, to persevere and to choose God over the crowd, knowing that our reward is with Him. It's also helpful to remember that we are not alone in this journey. As we mentioned earlier, we have the support of the Christian community, the encouragement of the saints who have gone before us and the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. Jesus promised in Matthew, chapter 28, verse 20, and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. This promise is our assurance that, no matter what we face, jesus is with us, guiding us, strengthening us and leading us in the way of truth.

Speaker 0: 22:03

As we continue to walk this path, it's important to understand that choosing God over the crowd is not just a one-time decision. It's a daily choice. Every day, we are presented with countless opportunities to either align our lives with God's truth or to go along with the prevailing culture. Sometimes these choices are obvious, like standing up for justice or refusing to participate in gossip. Other times, they're more subtle, like the decision to spend time in prayer rather than scrolling through social media, or to speak a kind word when we feel like staying silent. In Luke, chapter 9, verse 23, jesus says If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. Notice the word daily. Following Jesus isn't about a single act of faith, but a continual surrender of our own desires and will to the will of God. It's in the small everyday choices that our faithfulness is tested and proven. It's in the seemingly mundane moments that we learn to choose God over the crowd.

Speaker 0: 23:00

One of the biggest challenges we face in our modern culture is the desire for approval. We live in a world that constantly seeks validation through likes, follows and positive feedback. It's easy to get caught up in the need for affirmation from others and to let that influence our decisions. But Paul offers us a different perspective in Galatians, chapter 1, verse 10. For am I now seeking the approval of man or of God, or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Speaker 0: 23:30

Paul knew that seeking the approval of others was incompatible with wholehearted service to Christ. This is a hard truth to embrace. It means that there will be times when we have to make choices that are unpopular, that go against the grain of society or that even make us the target of criticism or ridicule. But the question we must ask ourselves is this whose approval matters most to us? Are we living for the applause of people or the well-done of our Heavenly Father? This reminds me of the words of Tozer, a respected Christian author and preacher, who said the man who would truly know God must give time to Him. Tozer wasn't talking about a casual, occasional acknowledgement of God, but about a deep, committed relationship. When we spend time with God through reading His Word, through prayer and through worship, we begin to care more about what he thinks than what others think. Our hearts become aligned with His and we find the strength to stand firm in our faith, even when the crowd pulls us in a different direction. One of the ways we can persist in this journey is by being intentional about the way we spend our time. We can choose to prioritize our relationship with God over the distractions and demands of the world. This might mean setting aside time each day to read scripture and pray, being mindful of what we allow into our hearts and minds through media, and seeking out community with other believers who can encourage us in our walk with Christ.

Speaker 0: 24:48

2. Choosing God over the crowd also means being willing to be different. Jesus called us to be salt and light in the world. In Matthew, chapter 5, verses 13 to 16, he says you are the salt of the earth. But if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden, nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house In the same way. Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father, who is in heaven. Salt and light are distinct. They stand out. They stand out as followers of Christ. We are called to be distinct from the world, not in a way that is self-righteous or judgmental, but in a way that points others to the hope and truth of the gospel. But let's be honest.

Speaker 0: 25:42

Being different isn't always easy. It can feel lonely at times. It can make us the subject of misunderstanding or even opposition. Yet this is where the beauty of the gospel shines through. When we choose to stand out for Christ. We are not standing on our own strength. We are standing on the foundation of God's love and grace, and in those moments we can be assured of His presence with us, as he promised in Isaiah, chapter 41, verse 10, fear not, for I am with you. Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. God is our strength and our support as we navigate the challenges of living out our faith. In addition to seeking God's approval above all else, it's crucial to remember that our choice to follow Him can be a powerful testimony to those around us.

Speaker 0: 26:28

Sometimes our faithfulness in the face of adversity speaks louder than words. People are watching how we respond to trials, how we treat others and how we live out the values we profess to believe. Our lives can either point others toward God or turn them away. The early Christians understood this well. In the book of Acts we see how the early church lived in such a way that their distinctiveness drew others to Christ. Acts, chapter 2, verses 46 to 47, says and day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people, and the Lord added to their number, day by day, those who were being saved. The early Christians lived out their faith in a way that was both attractive and compelling, and God used their witness to draw many to himself.

Speaker 0: 27:16

Choosing God over the crowd also means being prepared to give an answer for the hope that we have. 1 Peter, chapter 3, verse 15, instructs us but in your hearts, honor Christ, the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason, for the hope that is in you. Yet do it with gentleness and respect. When we live in a way that is different from the world, people may be curious about why we make the choices we do. This is an opportunity for us to share the gospel, to explain that our hope is not in this world but in the person of Jesus Christ. But notice that Peter emphasizes the manner in which we are to give this answer, with gentleness and respect.

Speaker 0: 27:59

Choosing God over the crowd doesn't mean being argumentative or combative. It means standing firm in truth while also demonstrating the love and grace of Christ. We are called to be ambassadors for Christ, representing Him in the way we speak, act and interact with others. John Stott, a well-known Christian author, once said we must be global Christians with a global vision, because our God is a global God. Our faithfulness to God is not just about our own personal relationship with Him. It's about participating in His mission to reach the world. When we choose God over the crowd, we become part of His redemptive work, shining His light in a world that desperately needs it.

Speaker 0: 28:31

As we come to the end of today's episode, I hope you've been encouraged and challenged to think about what it means to choose God over the crowd. Remember, this journey of faith isn't about perfection, but about daily surrender and seeking to honor God in every area of our lives. It's about trusting that, even when the cost feels high, god is with us and the reward of knowing Him far surpasses anything this world can offer. Thank you for joining me today on the Crossroads Collective Podcast. If this episode has spoken to you or if you know someone who could use a bit of encouragement, feel free to share it with them and, as always, let's continue to support each other in this journey, walking together as a community of believers who are committed to choosing God over the crowd.

Speaker 0: 29:13

Until next time. Stay strong, stay faithful and remember that you are never alone in this walk. God is with you every step of the way. Let's close in prayer. Heavenly Father, we thank you for this time we've had together as we go our separate ways. May your truth continue to resonate in our hearts. Give us the courage to stand for you, to be bold in our faith and to shine your light in every corner of our lives. We commit ourselves to you, trusting in your guidance and strength. In Jesus' name, we pray Amen. Thank you for being here and we'll see you next time on the Crossroads Collective Podcast. Take care, and God bless.