Our history as a nation has seen men and women who have gone contrary to the popular mentality. People like William Wilberforce, Martin Luther King, and Patrick Henry, to name a few. They were risking all for the freedom of the individual and the Faith.
Jesus is an agitator. He went against the grain, causing people to think. He was moving against the status quo and initiating his father’s heart and kingdom – many were offended, few responded, and were moved to a new place in their lives. They found their ultimate purpose.
Many Christians can be as a “wallflower” with picturesque notions and concepts that lead to inactivity. We just want things to remain normal. But, unfortunately, that day has come and gone.
We must be an agitator. That word today may invoke an idea of controversy – absolutely.
In the kingdom, we can provoke and spur people to remember the will and way of God in a neo-paganism, liberal and Marxist day. We are not looking for popularity or a fight but looking to honor Jesus above all.
The birth of a pearlÂ
If a grain of sand enters the oyster’s shell, he loses his life of comfort. In order to protect himself from irritation, the oyster will begin covering the sand with layers of nacre. Layer upon layer covers the grain of sand until the pearl is formed. When an oyster is bothered by a grain of sand, it creates a pearl.
The Bible agitates. Faith agitates. Mercy agitates. Grace agitates. Reconciliation agitates. These create pearls in our lives that have great value. The devil every moment is agitated by the ministry of the Spirit in a Christian life. Walking out our faith creates divine turbulence.
Our spirit must not be one of combativeness or antagonism, but it must be firm and unrelenting in love.
Steven was an agitator in Acts 7, and he shared the truth, and he lost his life for it. But, the story doesn’t end there. In Steven’s death, Saul observed and was set up for an encounter that would change his life forever. But, with great opposition comes unexpected growth opportunities.
Hebrew 10:23-24:
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.”
Growth Opportunity
One pastor friend shared with me pearls that he had discovered in the pandemic. He shared about the faithfulness of God and how he was provoked to be creative in ministries to others and not quit. He was determined to love and connect with people at his own risk.
Read: Hated for the Truth
Many want a peaceable and quiet life. “Don’t rock the boat, I just want to be a conformist.” Maybe we wouldn’t say that out loud, but that is what the truth of the matter is. We are speaking the truth in love that goes against the natural, cultural norm of life.
What is a spiritual agitator?
- Â You believe and speak more than what the majority believes
- Â Not a conformist but a big picture realist
- Â Considers others and their rights more than your own.
- Â Lives LOUD your faith.
- Â Religious freedom must be defended. A freedom fighter is one who demonstrates the gospel.
We are living in an important day. Don’t roll over, or you will eventually be run over. Look up for our redemption draws nigh…
Jason is a graduate from Maryland Bible College and Seminary, and presently he leads the Pastoral Care Team of Greater Grace Church in Baltimore. Since age 16, Jason has been involved with mission work among the former Soviet-Bloc countries in Eastern Europe, as well as in Asia, and in the United States. While living in Ukraine, he helped the church plant three new churches that continue to thrive today under trained nationals. He has also written five books and has his own podcast (www.InnerRevolution.us)
