Acts: boldness

Speaker: Colin Boyd

Notes

Jesus admired boldness and rewarded it:

• Luke 8:43-47 Woman with issue of blood

• Matt 20:30-31 Healing of the "noisy" blind men.

Acts 4:13-31 Peter and John before the authorities, who were impressed by their courage, that they were "ordinary men" and that they had "been with Jesus".

Comments on the possibilities of "ordinary men" - who have been with Jesus (like you).

V29-31, although threatened they asked for further "boldness". Comments upon boldness not being an aggressive attack on others' beliefs etc. See 1 Peter 3:15.

The need to show respect, often over a long period, before respect is liable to be given to "boldly" stated views. Value of curiosity being provoked by your godly lifestyle. Need for wisdom.

Fear of rejection needs to be overcome by boldness.

Did this boldness continue in the disciples? See Acts 5:17-42.

Comments on possible price for boldness and need for wisdom.

Application

Boldness was one (major) factor in the spread of the Christian gospel. What were, and are, the other main factors?

Do these factors apply in living day to day in your local community?

Have you ever been taken by surprise at being questioned about your Christianity? How did you react?

Pray for anyone who feels under pressure to conform to "the world's standards" in their everyday life.

Posted: 5 Oct 2008