A blog about the strength in going to church and embracing your faith in Jesus Christ. The image is of a ornate church building.

IF YOU SCARED, GO TO CHURCH: THE UNSEEN STRENGTH OF FAITH

The phrase “If You Scared, Go to Church” is often thrown around in hip-hop lyrics with a dismissive tone, implying that church is merely a sanctuary for the fearful. This perception casts Christians in a light of weakness and vulnerability—suggesting that faith is a last resort for those who cannot handle the real challenges of life.

This misrepresentation ignores the fact that for many, their spirituality is a source of strength, not a sign of weakness. Let’s look at the profound courage required to live a Christian life, contrary to the misconceptions of weakness, and highlights the often-overlooked ‘gangster’ aspects of Jesus’ teachings.

The Misconception of Meekness

Jesus Christ is often remembered for his humility and gentle spirit, especially as described in Matthew 11:29. However, he also demonstrated significant courage and defiance, which were not mere reactions but intentional decisions to carry out God’s plan. While commonly depicted as a figure of peace—born in a humble manger, healing the ill, promoting love, and not resisting his own crucifixion—this view can overlook the deliberate strength behind his actions.

Jesus was our example of strength and going to church. He didn't see going to church as weakness. Image is of a man standing on top of a mountain holding up a cross.

Jesus was unmistakably bold and frequently challenged societal norms. His notable actions include overturning the merchants’ tables in the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) and directly criticizing the Pharisees (Matthew 12:34). These weren’t signs of weakness but powerful protests against the societal and religious corruption of his time. These moments remind us that when we go to church and embrace our faith in Jesus Christ, we celebrate not just his peace and love but also his brave commitment to justice and truth.

The Strength in Going to Church

The idea that going to church is a sign of weakness couldn’t be more wrong. Choosing to embrace Christianity and attend church regularly involves facing societal pressures, enduring criticism, and sometimes feeling isolated from friends who don’t share the same beliefs. This journey requires a special kind of courage and boldness—qualities that truly embody strength.

The Real Gangsters: Disciples of Christ

Going to church isn’t just a routine; it’s a statement of faith and resilience. The disciples of Jesus, such as the Apostles, are prime examples of this strength. They faced persecution and even martyrdom but remained steadfast in their beliefs. History and scripture are filled with stories of believers who chose to suffer or even die rather than give up their faith, highlighting the profound bravery it takes to hold firm to one’s convictions. When we go to church, we’re not just following a ritual; we’re connecting with a legacy of the brave and the bold.

Going to church might cost you something. Choosing Jesus is not always easy. The image is of a man on his knees praying inside of a church.

The Cost of Discipleship

Jesus made it clear that choosing to follow him isn’t always going to be easy or peaceful. He spoke about bringing a ‘sword’—not a literal one, but a metaphor for the division and conflict that his teachings would cause, even among close family members, as mentioned in Matthew 10:34-39. This means that sometimes, putting your faith first can lead to tough choices and personal sacrifices.

The word of God is clear that persecution is a likely part of a Christian’s journey. This is highlighted in John 15:18-19, where Jesus forewarned that his followers would be ostracized by the world. Such opposition is a testament to the strength and resilience required to maintain one’s faith.

Modern-Day Martyrs: Statistics and Stories

The early Christians bravely faced lions in arenas, but today’s believers deal with their own tough challenges when they go to church. Nowadays, those challenges often come in the form of social media backlash, legal issues, and sometimes even violence. Despite these threats, statistics show that thousands of Christians around the world face oppression, and many lose their lives each year because of their faith. According to Open Doors’ article on “13 Christians A Day Killed For Their Faith”, these numbers highlight not just the dangers they face, but also the incredible courage it takes to maintain their commitment to going to church and standing strong in their beliefs.

Giving Up Everything to Follow Christ

The Example of the Rich Young Ruler

Jesus’ conversation with the rich young ruler (Luke 18:18-23) illustrates the profound sacrifice required to follow him. This story is a strong reminder that true discipleship might require giving up material wealth, social standing, or personal plans—a decision that only the bravest can make.

Living a christian life and going to church is a bold choice, not a hideout for the scared. The image shows a cross, with a lit background. There are people of all ages looking up to the cross for strength.

Final Thoughts: Stand Firm in Faith

Living a Christian life is a bold choice, not a hideout for the scared. The saying “If You Scared, Go to Church” is really a call to face our deepest fears—rejection, persecution, and sacrifice—with unshakeable faith. As believers, holding strong to our faith, especially when it’s tough, is a truly courageous act.

Don’t back down from your beliefs or the obstacles that come with them. Whether you’re dealing with criticism on social media or standing by the truth at a personal cost, your faith is your strength. Be bold, be brave, and embrace your commitment to Jesus Christ.

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