What Is Boldness?

I believe boldness is the courage to act, speak, and tell others of God’s love and plan even when we are fearful of rejection.

I realize that you and I may still have fear in witnessing to God’s goodness and forgiveness. So today I think it is helpful for us to see how the Apostle Paul had both boldness and fear, yet he was still faithful to go public with the love of God.

“I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” -1 Corinthians 2:3-5, emphasis added

I have been scared and fearful in sharing the gospel with people, but I don’t think I have ever trembled. Because of his past history, I believe Paul thought he would be beaten or thrown in prison again. That would certainly cause me to tremble.

But his love for Christ Jesus motivated him to be bold with the gospel message, the only hope of the world, regardless of the consequences.

Before his fear is mentioned, the Apostle Paul also tells us that he was not a great speaker.

“When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” -1 Corinthians 2:1b-2, emphasis added

The Apostle Paul did not depend on his eloquence or intelligence. He depended on the Spirit of the Living God.

Yes, we all have our human weakness and we may not be great speakers, but we are still called to publicly identify with Jesus Christ no matter what pain or rejection that entails.

Yes, every Christian is on mission. Location does not determine spirituality. One calling is not better than another. Whatever you do and wherever you are planted, you are on mission. And that mission requires you to go public with Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior for all eternity.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” -1 Peter 3:15a, emphasis added

“So do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” -Isaiah 41:10, emphasis added

What is boldness?

Boldness is simply choosing to act and speak in a way that points others to the love of God and the joy of new life in Christ alone, no matter the outcome. May God fill us with His presence in such a way that causes us to speak publicly about the redeeming love of God only found in Christ Jesus.

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