Let's “Give It Up” For Christ!
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesThis past season, my wife and I watched the American Idol show on television, which showcases potential musical artists. Ryan Seacrest is the host of the show. When Ryan introduces certain guest artists, he sometimes admonishes the audience to “give it up” for that specific entertainer.
The “give it up” phrase is designed to encourage folks not to restrain their enthusiasm or applause for either the famous or not-so-famous musical artist who is about to perform on stage.
Similarly, as members of the Lord’s church, we too are admonished to “give it up” for Christ — not in the form of worldly applause, but having a zeal (enthusiasm or fervor) to accomplish what the Lord has directed us to accomplish (Acts 18:24-25; cf. Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16).
The Scriptures also tell us to “give it up” for:
- God (Acts 22:3; Romans 10:2 – note the term “zeal“ or “zealous“).
- Good works (Titus 2:14 – note the term “zealous“; cf. Ephesians 2:10).
Brethren, we are supposed to be enthusiastic for the Lord’s cause (note the phrase, “fervent in spirit” – Acts 18:24-25 NKJV; Romans 12:11 NKJV). Many times, the world drowns out any spiritual enthusiasm we might have through its ungodly influence (Matthew 13:22; cf. 1 Timothy 6:6-9; 2 Timothy 4:10).
Let’s not allow the world to come between us and our Lord, but daily renew our minds with the transforming power of God’s word and will for our lives (Romans 12:2; cf. Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:1-10; 1 Peter 1:13-22).
Let’s “give it up” for Christ! (1 Corinthians 15:58).