The Name of Christ

If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.
1 Peter 4:14

A Turning Points reader recently posted an interesting question on social media: What is it about the Name of Christ? Why does the world so hate it? Russian history books are stained with the blood of believers, savagely tortured and killed by the thousands in Soviet days. Those days changed with the fall of the Iron Curtain, or so we thought. But earlier this year, Vladimir Putin turned back the clock, passing a new law forbidding Christians from sharing their faith anywhere but within the walls of official church buildings. Even speaking of Christ in private homes is forbidden. Online sharing of the Gospel is forbidden.

In America, secularists seek to restrict freedom of Christian expression in public life, but its far worse now in Russia and in many other parts of the world. Former British Prime Minister David Cameron was correct when he called Christians the most persecuted group in the world today.

Why do skeptics fear the Name of Jesus? What is it about that Name? As Bill and Gloria Gaither wrote, Kings and kingdoms will all pass away, but there’s something about that Name.

All hail the power of Jesus Name! Let angels prostrate fall; / Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all.
Edward Perronet