Is Boldness the Key?
“They had been with Jesus”: Unlocking the Source of Boldness
Acts 4:13-16 ESV [13] Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. [14] But seeing the man who was healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. [15] But when they had commanded them to leave the council, they conferred with one another, [16] saying, “What shall we do with these men? For that a notable sign has been performed through them is evident to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.
Did you notice all the bold headings today? Is boldness the key to transformative faith? I wanted to convey the idea that we are BOLD at bible-alive.com. In our study of Acts chapter 4 today I would first like to recommend that you read it. It is an exciting passage and you will see the religious leaders took note of Peter and John’s extraordinary boldness. The secret behind their fearlessness was succinctly expressed: “They had been with Jesus.” This profound statement encapsulates the transformative power of intimate fellowship with Christ. As we delve into Acts 4 and explore the theme of boldness, let’s unravel the implications of being in the presence of Jesus and how it shapes our faith journey. It truly all begins there.
The Power of Boldness – The Holy Spirit:
Acts 4:7-8 ESV [7] “And when they had set them in the midst, they inquired, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” [8] Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them…” The narrative unfolds with the apostles speaking to the people, and their boldness is explicitly attributed to being “filled with the Holy Spirit.” This echoes the promise Jesus made in Acts 1:8, where He said, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” This divine empowerment is not limited to Acts 4; throughout the New Testament, believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, exhibit boldness in sharing the Gospel. In the same way we will tap into this imperative resource as we are endowed with the same power.
Examples from other passages further reinforce this connection. In Acts 2:4, the early Christians, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaimed the wonders of God. The pattern continues in Ephesians 6:19-20, where Paul, imprisoned and recognizing the need for boldness, requests prayer for words to boldly proclaim the mystery of the gospel. This consistent theme illustrates the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in infusing boldness into believers across various contexts.
The Proclamation of Boldness – This Jesus:
As Peter and John stand before rulers and elders, they boldly declare the resurrection of Jesus. The proclamation extends beyond Acts 4, resonating in the apostles’ ministry throughout the Book of Acts. In Acts 5:29, Peter asserts, “We must obey God rather than men,” exemplifying an unwavering commitment to boldly proclaiming Christ. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 1:16, echoes this sentiment, stating, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”
Moreover, Paul’s request for prayer in Colossians 4:2-4 further interconnects the theme of bold proclamation. He seeks prayer for an open door to declare the mystery of Christ and clarity in speaking. These interconnected threads emphasize the enduring impact of boldly declaring the name of Jesus. As one saint after another proclaims the Word of God in power.
The Prayer for Boldness:
Released from custody, Peter and John join their fellow believers in prayer, seeking not safety but increased boldness. This prayer for boldness finds resonance in the prayers of other early Christians. In Ephesians 6:19-20, Paul requests prayers for himself, emphasizing the need for words to boldly proclaim the gospel. The interconnectedness of prayer and boldness is further highlighted in Colossians 4:2-4, where Paul seeks prayer for an open door and clarity in speaking.
Ephesians 6:19-20 ESV 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
Colossians 4:2-4 ESV 2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Prayer continues to play a pivotal role in anticipating and cultivating boldness in the lives of believers. Philippians 1:19-20 reveals Paul’s anticipation of deliverance through the Philippians’ prayers, emphasizing their role in his boldness. Additionally, 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 reflects Paul’s ongoing request for prayer, seeking the spread of the gospel and deliverance from wicked opponents.
Philippians 1:19-20 ESV 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, 20 as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 ESV 1 Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, 2 and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith.
Examining Boldness – What It Is as Defined in This Chapter:
Examining boldness in Acts 4 reveals a nuanced understanding. It is not merely courage but a spiritual fortitude fueled by the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to fearlessly proclaim the Gospel, regardless of circumstances. This concept aligns with other passages such as 2 Timothy 1:7, where Paul writes, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
Evidence of Boldness – What Does it Do?:
Acts 4 provides evidence of boldness through the apostles’ unwavering proclamation, even in the face of imprisonment and threats. Souls are saved, 5000, in this passage alone. Mouths are closed as the leaders are perplexed by the apostle’s boldness. But, persecution came. They were put in jail. Over and over believers were persecuted and punished for their bold message. Courage is not defined by the absence of fear but is perseverance through fear. This evidence echoes in the lives of early Christians. We will not always be received but often rejected. Jesus said, “Blessed are we when we are persecuted for righteousness sake.” In Acts 14:3, as Paul and Barnabas continued speaking boldly, the Lord bore witness to the word of His grace by granting signs and wonders. The transformative impact of boldness is further exemplified in Acts 17:6, where believers turned cities upside down with their bold witness. If we expect to have an everlasting impact as the Church of this age we must be bold!
Additional passages fortify this evidence of boldness. Acts 5:29-32 showcases Peter and the apostles boldly declaring their allegiance to God’s command over human authority. Romans 1:16, where Paul expresses his boldness, emphasizes that he is not ashamed of the gospel, illustrating its power for salvation. The evidence of boldness in believers throughout the New Testament is overwhelming. Be Bold My Beloved!
Experience of Boldness – What Will it Do in Our Lives as Believers?:
Reflecting on the experiences of Peter, John, and the early believers, we explore how embracing boldness can reshape our lives. Beyond Acts 4, the experience of boldness is seen in the lives of individuals like Stephen in Acts 7, who boldly testified before the Sanhedrin, even in the face of martyrdom. This illustrates that boldness, when embraced, becomes a transformative force, influencing actions, interactions, and the overall trajectory of one’s faith journey. Everything is influenced by our confidence in Christ. Isn’t boldness connected to trust and confidence? Isn’t boldness evidence of our faith? Fear fades as boldness increases. Peter and John do not exhibit fear in this passage. Their actions speak and their words shout boldness. But, I tell you we will never experience boldness until we start believing that Jesus will not leave us in the battle. When we step out He is with us. This faith is the key to being bold.
These transformative experiences of boldness extend to various contexts. In 2 Corinthians 3:12, believers, with unveiled faces, can approach God with boldness, reflecting the transformative impact of the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:12 ESV 12 Since we have such a hope, we are very bold.
Expecting Boldness – How do I Become Bold?
Drawing inspiration from the believers’ prayer for boldness in Acts 4:23-31, this section provides practical insights into how believers can cultivate boldness in their lives. The interconnectedness of prayer and boldness is emphasized in passages like Philippians 1:19, where Paul expresses confidence that through the prayers of the Philippians and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, his imprisonment will result in boldness. This passage guides believers on how to align their hearts with the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, actively seeking God’s empowerment through prayer, and expecting boldness to become a defining characteristic of their lives.
Prayers for boldness are not isolated incidents. James 1:5-6 encourages believers to ask God for wisdom with faith, without doubting, reflecting an expectation for boldness through prayer. Hebrews 4:16 further reinforces this expectation, urging believers to approach the throne of grace with confidence, expecting to receive mercy and find grace for help in times of need.
How to Be Bold for Jesus: A Practical Guide
#1 Deepen Your Relationship with Jesus:
Cultivate a close, personal relationship with Jesus through prayer, meditation, and regular study of the Bible. The more you know Him, the more your confidence in sharing His message will grow.
2. Pray for Boldness:
Follow the example of early believers in Acts 4:29 who prayed for boldness. Ask God to infuse you with courage and confidence to boldly proclaim the Gospel and live out your faith.
3. Understand His Word:
Gain a thorough understanding of the Bible to articulate and defend your faith effectively. Knowing the Scriptures empowers you to share the truth boldly.
4. Practice What You Preach:
Live a life consistent with your beliefs. Your actions should align with the principles of love, compassion, and integrity taught by Jesus. Boldness is expressed not only in words but also in deeds.
5. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone:
Boldness often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to engage in conversations about your faith, even in challenging situations. Trust that the Holy Spirit will guide and empower you.
6. Surround Yourself with Support:
Build a supportive community of fellow believers who encourage and challenge each other to be bold for Jesus. Having like-minded companions strengthens your resolve.
7. Be Humble and Loving:
Approach discussions with humility and love. Boldness doesn’t mean arrogance or forcefulness. Jesus’ boldness was accompanied by genuine love and compassion.
8. Respond to Opportunities:
Be attentive to opportunities to share your faith. It could be a conversation with a friend, a colleague, or a family member. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your responses.
9. Seek Wisdom:
Pray for wisdom (James 1:5) to know when and how to speak boldly. Not every situation requires the same approach, and discernment is crucial.
10. Persevere in Prayer:
Boldness is a result of ongoing communion with God. Continue to pray for boldness, seeking His guidance and strength daily. Remember, being bold for Jesus is a journey of growth and transformation. Trust in His power and rely on the Holy Spirit as you step out boldly in faith.
As we navigate through Acts 4 and interconnect these concepts with other passages, we aim to unravel the multifaceted nature of boldness. By exploring its power, proclamation, prayer, examination, evidence, experience, and expectation, believers are invited not only to understand but actively embrace and cultivate boldness in their journey of faith.
We would love to come alongside you on your journey. In the coming weeks, we will be adding to our outreach, video teaching, and subscriber content. If you would like to be included please drop your email address in the comments section. Bold in Christ, B