Ever wonder where this common saying (“risk your neck”) came from? read your Bible. Read Romans 16:3-4 (esv) which says,

3 Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well.

Yes, the Greek behind that English translation [hypotithēmi] clearly speaks of those dear coworkers “laying down” their necks — in a vulnerable, submissive or sacrificial way. (Perhaps helping Paul during the riot in Ephesus, Acts 19?)

Are you willing to risk your neck for the cause of the Gospel? Easy to say, since there is little one could do in our land in our day that would cost you your life! But are you willing to do those intermediate-risk-level things, which God might put in your path — such as taking a stand for Christ in the workplace, and risking your job? Or speaking out in a classroom for absolute truth, and risking your popularity? Or broaching the exclusive claims of the gospel with a neighbor, and risk ending your covert-Christian status in the ‘hood?

Yes, there are plenty of ways to stick your neck out for Christ short of risking your physical life. Let’s be ready to be faithful in whatever opportunities the Lord brings us into….

pdb