5 Ways ‘Righteous Rebels’ Defy Worldly Logic
By Chuck E. Tate
In a world where beliefs and faiths are often mocked, it's important for followers of Jesus Christ to stand firm in their convictions.
Our faith is based on truths that defy worldly logic but align perfectly with God's divine revelation. Rebellion against the world may seem radical to some. But for Christ followers, being “righteous rebels” goes with the territory.
“In the name of Jesus, gonna stand my ground.
If a rebel is what it takes, a rebel is what I’ll be
‘cause the one I follow was a rebel like me.” – ‘REBEL’ song lyrics by Anne Wilson
Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5 and the inspiring lyrics of Anne Wilson's song REBEL, let's explore why embracing our "crazy" faith is not only rational but essential.
Below are five points that make a biblical case for righteous rebellion.
The Authority of Scripture
"Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others." (2 Corinthians 5:11 NLT)
In a culture quick to question the inerrancy and authority of Scripture, it is critical to anchor our beliefs in the unchanging Word of God. As righteous rebels, we uphold that the Bible is true, it guides our lives, and it is the ultimate authority on morality, life, and eternity. When society drifts from these truths, what often follows is moral and spiritual decline. Stand firm in Scripture, for in its truth, we find our mission and strength.
Jesus is the Only Way
"Jesus said, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" (John 14:6)
Many paths are presented to us in this world, but as followers of Christ, we assert that salvation is found in Christ alone. The narrow gate might be less traveled and the road less inviting, but it is the only path to true life. Our rebel Jesus didn't conform to the expectations of His time — He defined them!
Embrace His way, for it is the path of true rebellion against the broad highways of the world.
All Religions Can’t Be Right
“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it. (Matthew 7:13-14 NLT)
It's popular to claim that all spiritual paths lead to the same destination, but logical scrutiny and Jesus' own words refute this. Different religions make mutually exclusive claims; thus, they cannot all be true. Jesus' claim to divinity, His resurrection, and His teachings set Christianity apart. He is not merely a prophet or a wise teacher; He is God incarnate, our only bridge to the Father.
The Call to Stand Out
"If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God." (2 Corinthians 5:13)
Embracing the label of 'crazy' by the world's standards means we live for a higher praise. Like the heroes of faith before us — David, Daniel, Moses — we're called to stand firm against the tides of popular opinion and societal norms. When we choose to go against the flow for Christ’s sake, we echo the courage of those who made history not by fitting in, but by standing out.
Living as Rebels for Christ
"When the crowd goes one way, I go the other." – ‘REBEL’ song lyrics by Anne Wilson
Our rebellion is not one of chaos, but of love, truth, and unyielding devotion to Christ. In a world where spiritual apathy is celebrated, choosing to follow Jesus with all our hearts is our ultimate rebellion. We are rebels not by our might, but by the Spirit of God who empowers and guides us.
As righteous rebels, our challenge is great, but our calling is greater. Let's embrace our identity in Christ, stand firm in the authority of Scripture, and walk the narrow path with courage and conviction. We are not rebels without a cause; we have the most important cause of all — the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
"Be the church. Go to church. Grow the church."
This is our manifesto as we bring glory to God and light to a world living in darkness.
Chuck E. Tate is a pastor, podcaster, and author of 41 Will Come.