Compelled

“I am compelled by God to do it.” 1 Corinthians 9:16

Saint Paul explains in 1 Corinthians that if he preached the Good News, it was no reason for him to boast. He did it because an obligation, a necessity was imposed on him. He was compelled to do it. Woe to him if he did not do it! Do we feel the same?

Christine Caine, a remarkable international speaker, author and evangelist told a story about when she was a young, insecure Christian at the University of Sydney. She had a friend named Debbie who was beautiful, rich, and did well academically. Christine thought why should she tell Debbie about Jesus, Debbie already had it all? Then one day in the cafeteria, after she noticed Debbie had been absent for 3 days, she saw Debbie approach her with excitement in her eyes. 

“Debbie! Where have you been? I’ve been looking for you!” she started. “Christine! Christine!” Debbie held her animatedly. “I just came from a rave! I haven’t slept for 3 days! I’m so happy! There was just love, joy and peace all around! I thought Christine should experience this too!” 

And there in her hand, Debbie held out the secret she wanted to share with Christine. It was half a tablet of Ecstasy! It was like a bomb exploded in Christine’s head. So many revelations! Debbie was a better friend than she was! Debbie was so eager to share her new found “treasure”. Her friend who she thought had everything, was looking for something but Christine knew love, joy and peace couldn’t be found in any tablet! Why didn’t she share Jesus with Debbie? Was she afraid Debbie would laugh? Was it easier to share about drugs, dirty jokes, the latest celebrity gossip, the best bar to hang out in? 

Saint Paul says in verse 17 that if he shares the good news he will be rewarded. One thing we have to remember, for this warning came from Jesus Himself: “Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” (Luke 9:26)