Many of us grew up in communities where most people considered themselves believers. People didn’t necessarily walk around wearing their faith on their sleeves, but not many took a stand against Jesus. 

Even people who didn’t believe went their own way and made sure not to make too many waves. 

I am aware that some come from environments where faith in Jesus was not accommodated. I take my hat off to people who, despite opposition, still chose to follow Jesus as their Saviour. 

I still remember the day someone mocked my faith. Well, I remember the snort followed by the indignant laugh. I still get upset thinking about it.  

The spirit of the antichrist is an attitude that deliberately opposes Jesus, manifested in those who deny His coming to earth and death on the cross for our sins, and in those who refuse to allow the Holy Spirit into their lives. 

As the modern world progresses, there is increasingly more room for anything. As the saying goes, “Everything goes!” It is precisely in such a world that the presence of the antichrist becomes increasingly evident. 

Well, it’s actually been like this since Biblical times: 3And everyone who refuses to confess faith in Jesus has nothing in common with God. This is the spirit of antichrist that you heard was coming. Well, here it is, sooner than we thought! 

Doesn’t that make you sad too? Do you also feel sorry for the people who deliberately choose to miss the boat? I just want to burst into tears, grab them by the shoulders and say: “Wake up! You’re on your way to an eternal death!” 

Yet, it’s like speaking to people whose eyes show a profound disconnect. Our language seems utterly incomprehensible to them. 

I believe this is where we begin to understand how to respond to those who mock our faith. We should not argue with them, as they are unable or unwilling to listen. 

What we do need to do is simple: show. Show them Jesus, not just with words, but with actions. This is not new, but we must take it seriously. Let us live our faith — with love, with tenderness — even towards those who oppose us. Because this love does not come from us, it comes from Jesus. 

The person who snorted like that and gave that indignant laugh was our visitor for a few days. During their stay, we lived in love and refrained from talking about our faith. 

But at one point she asked something about our faith and thus opened the door of her heart for us to plant a seed. We pray hard that the Holy Spirit will make it grow. 

Scripture
1 John 4:1-10

Reflection
Have I ever kept quiet about my faith for fear of rejection or ridicule?
To what extent do I allow the “everything goes” culture to influence my faith?
How can I act more lovingly toward people who haven’t yet chosen Jesus? 

Prayer
God, thank you for choosing me to be on your team. I want to be an example to those who do not believe. Help me channel Your love to others through my actions. Amen.