John 12:42-43 Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.

Just five days ago we had Jesus’ statement that people couldn’t believe because they sought the accolades of men rather than those of God, and here we have a practical example. These leaders believed that Jesus was the promised Messiah, but even so they were more afraid of the reaction of the Pharisees than they were of God. That seems very Japanese to me! In Japan, the group is of supreme importance. That can have some very good effects, like right now when people are so polite and disciplined even in the face of a terrible disaster, but it often has the effect of binding people to what they think are the group expectations and norms. Actually it doesn’t matter so much what those expectations and norms are, so much as what each individual thinks they are. People think they will be excluded if they become Christians, and so they hold back. Sometimes people are indeed excluded, or even disinherited, for becoming Christian, but that is far rarer than people think. Even if we are cut off, however, God calls us to complete allegiance to Him, regardless of what others say or do. Like came out yesterday, it’s a matter of priorities. We aren’t to go around ignoring the opinions and reactions of those around us (as some Americans tend to do), but we are to be committed and obedient to God before and above any concern we have of what people will think of us.

This is something I deal with all the time, not because I am afraid of what people will think, say, or do, but because the people to whom I witness are. Not having been raised as a Japanese (even though I was raised in Japan) I don’t have full empathy with that. There is some truth to it when Japanese accuse me of not understanding how they feel. However, I do know without question that Christ calls for our full allegiance, and that is true regardless of our culture. I need wisdom and sensitivity from God to speak the truth in love consistently to everyone, not coddling them and leaving them in spiritual weakness, but helping them step out of the quicksand of culture onto the firm bedrock of Jesus Christ.

Father, You’ve given me a clear word picture of what I need to be doing, but You know even better than I do that I can’t begin to do that in my own strength and wisdom. I ask for guidance and anointing so that I won’t rely on myself or even the gifts that You have placed in me, but on Your Spirit at all times and in all ways. May I not be worried about whether people will reject me, but be bold in proclaiming Your kingdom, Your grace and love to them, for their salvation and Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!