Boldness is a trait exhibited by many New Testament figures and is defined in their courage born of trust in God and His Christ. God's purposes and the revelation of His power in Christ depended on the bold acts of those who put their trust in Him.

1 Corinthians 1:21 “For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.”

Peter and the Apostles would preach the Gospel to the Jews from the audience at Pentecost; to the audience produced by a healing, and before the Sanhedrin (having been arrested a couple of times and beaten for their efforts, Acts 2-5 ).

Stephen was martyred for his efforts to proclaim the power of God through Christ among the Freedmen, and then the high priest and council ( Acts 6:8-7:60 ).

The Apostle Paul would boldly preach Christ to both Jew and Gentile; in synagogues, by rivers, in open theaters, and in the privacy of homes. For his efforts he was imprisoned; beaten by both Jew and Roman, stoned, shipwrecked, and a surplus of other perils ( II Corinthians 11:22 -33 ).

 

An important characteristic of these bold biblical figures is that they act with the knowledge that whatever they do is subject to God's authority . They may act boldly, but always with the understanding that it is God who is in control and has planned the events that are unfolding.

It is this understanding of submission that separates and distinguishes this boldness born of trust in God from brashness , which does not acknowledge God.

Brashness is the religious fanaticism born of hatred, prejudice, and self elevation. This fanaticism has always been harmful to all men (regardless of what religious entity produces it) and contrary to the teachings of God.

2 Corinthians 10:3-6 “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh . 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”

It is the bold presentation of the word of God in both word and deed (our obedience standing as judgment by example to those who are disobedient), that affect the minds of others for free-will change in their lives.

This fight, we must fight boldly , led by the word of God!

 

The success of these brave examples of boldness was never measured by numbers changed; governments overthrown, or infidels killed - but by the work itself in educating men to God through Christ.

 

Do You Trust God?