The early Christians really had a different understanding of what it meant to 'take a stand' for Christ. They knew that the moment they would preach the message of Jesus, they would either be put to death, persecuted or imprisoned. Times were tense. The religious leaders and authorities were against Jesus and everyone associated with Him. Jesus' consoling words to them were, "Don't worry about what you will say, the Holy Spirit will teach you" (Luke12:12).

One of the 'challenges' you will face as a new believer, will be taking a stand for your faith in front of friends or family. The early Christians put our modern day ‘standing for our faith’ into perspective. We will probably not be killed for taking a stand for our faith, although ultimately that is what we should be willing to do if it came to that.

To take a stand for Jesus requires a conviction in your heart and courage. There is always the possibility of losing relationships with loved ones and friends because of the decision that you have made. Our family and friends are a huge part of our life, and you will need to figure out which friends are right for you and which will have a bad influence on you.

1 Corinthians 15:33 says: “Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character” (NIV).

This does not mean that you need to reject your friends, however, the sooner you can tell them about the decision you have made to follow Christ the easier it will be for you. This will be a defining moment for you, because true friends will respect the choice you have made.

At this crossroads in your life, you will probably find that you might lose some friends. Don't be discouraged, you will make new ones again. Make sure that the friends you spend most of your time with are the ones who will build you up and encourage you in your faith. This is why it is so important to belong to a new family.

Jesus says in Luke 12:8-9 "Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, the Son of Man will also acknowledge in the presence of God's angels. But everyone who denies me here on earth will be denied before God's angels.”

What a privilege it is to acknowledge Jesus, our Saviour, here on earth. What a privilege it is when we are given opportunities before people, friends, family and authorities to testify of what Jesus has done for us!