Introduction: Are you ready to share Jesus? Are you prepared to defend your faith in the gospel of Christ? Paul said,

“16For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” (Rom 1:16)

1. What does it mean to be ashamed? (Rom 1:16)

The word “ashamed” is ἐπαισχύνομαι: (ep-ahee-skhoo’-nom-ahee)I am ashamed, am ashamed of. By definition, ashamed means reluctant to do something due to fear or embarrassment. 

Are we ashamed or embarrassed that we will not say the right thing? Is that keeping us from witnessing? Are we reluctant to share Jesus because of fear of rejection? 

2. Why should we not be ashamed?

Jesus said:

“32Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. 33But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.” (Matt 10:32,33)

Is our lifestyle questionable to the person we are witnessing to? Should we be concerned about our lifestyle? Does our lifestyle add credibility to our witness?

3. How can we prepare to stand before Jesus unashamed?

“Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;” (2Tim 1:8)

In some circles, people are hostile toward the gospel. Are you prepared for ridicule? How should we respond to rejection?

“10Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” (Matt 5:10-12)

Expect persecution. It is going to happen. Jesus was persecuted. If we follow His will and His Word, we too will be ridiculed.

Conclusion: Are you tempted to laugh at dirty jokes? Do you speak up in a spirit of love? Will you recommit to sharing Jesus? Will you confess where you have been ashamed? Will you thank our Lord for His Amazing GRACE and unconditional LOVE?

Keep SHARING JESUS! He does not have plan B.