It's interesting to consider the reactions of mankind when confronted
with Jesus in the flesh.
Attenders of a synagogue where He taught said, "Is this not the
carpenter's son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers
James, Joses, simon, and Judas? And His sisters, are
they not all with us? Where then did this man get all
these things?" (Mt. 13:54-56).
Jesus up close and amongst them drew a strong reaction.
The same thing happens in our world. Religion is permitted
as long as it is distant or not real. However, become more
like Jesus and mention His name--a strong reaction
ensues.
Indeed, don't mention His name in our government.
Don't mention His name in our schools. Mankind
has even pursued the erradication of His name in
a manner that an exterminator rids an environment of pests.
Of course, we can placate them by becoming a little less
like our Savior. Certainly, we can water down the gospel,
or we can be more aloof about the things of God, in order
to avoid dissension. But, is that what we really want?
It is not what I want. I don't want less of Jesus in me.
I don't want His distance that I might have more
respect from men. No, I want to be full of Jesus--I
want His life to have free reign in me and through me.
John the apostle said:
"Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:" (1 John 4:2).
His Spirit is in the flesh today when He lives in us and through us.
Indeed, when He is very real in us, there will be many who hate us.
But, if we are ashamed of Him, He will be ashamed of us when He returns
(see Mark 8:38).