by Francisco Bezerra

In the last several weeks, few people have been in evidence as much as soccer forward Marcelinho Carioca of the Corinthians team. Not only in the media, because of numerous games in which he has participated, but people everywhere talk about him, not because of his ability, talent, or the goals he has made.

This young man has been at the forefront for two other reasons: his undisciplined, violent, and extremely irreverent behavior. The second reason is that this behavior goes against the faith he has professed before millions of people in interviews.

Through the gospels and the Pauline letters, the Lord Jesus exhorts us numerous times about holiness in our attitudes: "... so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God" (1 Thess. 3.13a, NASU).

We can never forget that all of us who accept Jesus Christ as our Savior were chosen by him "that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love he predestined us to adoption as sons" (Eph. 1.4-5a). So whether we be "Athletes of Christ" or "Executives of Christ" or Christian Police" or whatever be our professional activity, our testimony must be irreprehensible.

"But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness" (1 Tim. 6.11).

Another fairly common example can be seen in the streets and avenues: someone whose car has the sticker "In the King's service" or "Exclusive property of Jesus" ou some other that identifies its owner as a servant of the Lord, but who drives as if they did not care for the people in the other cars or for the pedestrians. "Look there! A 'disciple of Christ' running the red light." Or, "I was cut off by a 'servant of God.'"

To belong to Christ, to be of him, is to give oneself up to his will. What does it matter to SAY we are "of Christ" when our day-to-day testifies against the new life? Let's be imitators of Christ.

"I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who tesified the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Tim. 6.13-14).
__________
Francisco edits Edification Magazine, aside from teaching, preaching, and evangelism in two Sao Paulo, Brazil, congregations. He is Assistant to the Commercial Diretor of Varig Airlines.

New Additions