Acts 15:26: Risk for gospel today?
How does Acts 15:26 inspire us to risk for the gospel today?

Acts 15:26 in a Sentence

“men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Acts 15:26)

• Luke records a historical fact: Paul and Barnabas literally staked their lives on Jesus’ name.

• The text is not hyperbole; their beatings, stonings, and imprisonments (Acts 13:50; 14:19; 16:22-24) prove it.

• Their example becomes a timeless pattern for every generation of believers.


Risking for the Gospel—Then and Now

• Paul and Barnabas faced hostile crowds, governmental pressure, and physical violence.

• Their motivation: “the name of our Lord Jesus Christ”—His honor, fame, and saving power.

• That same name has not diminished in value or authority (Philippians 2:9-11); therefore, the call to risk remains.


What Does Risk Look Like Today?

• Speaking gospel truth even when it is socially unwelcome (2 Timothy 4:2).

• Crossing cultural, ethnic, or comfort boundaries to plant churches and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

• Opening our homes and schedules to the marginalized (Hebrews 13:1-3).

• Generous, sacrificial giving that adjusts lifestyle for kingdom advance (2 Corinthians 8:3-5).

• Publicly standing for biblical convictions in workplaces, universities, and civic arenas (1 Peter 4:14-16).

• Supporting and visiting persecuted believers worldwide (Hebrews 10:32-34).


Motivations That Push Us Out of Comfort

• Jesus is worthy—He first risked everything for us, even to death (Romans 5:8).

• The Spirit empowers bold witness (Acts 1:8).

• Eternal reward outweighs present loss (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).

• Obedience proves our love for Christ (John 14:15).

• Others’ salvation hangs in the balance (Romans 10:14-15).


Practical Pathways to Courageous Living

1. Anchor every decision in Scripture; let God’s Word set the agenda, not fear.

2. Pray specifically for boldness, as the early church did (Acts 4:29-31).

3. Link arms with a local body; shared risk strengthens resolve (Philippians 1:27-30).

4. Start small—initiate one gospel conversation, invite one neighbor, give one costly gift—and watch faith grow.

5. Stay informed about global persecution; adopt a country or missionary for regular intercession and support.

6. Keep a journal of God’s past faithfulness; remembering fuels future courage (Psalm 77:11-12).


Promises God Gives Risk-Takers

• “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

• “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)

• “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)

• “Whoever loses his life for My sake and for the gospel will save it.” (Mark 8:35)


Closing Challenge

The first-century church saw Acts 15:26 lived out before their eyes. Our generation reads the same inspired line and hears the same call: trade safety for significance, comfort for obedience, reputation for Christ’s renown. Because Jesus is alive, every calculated risk for His name is, in reality, the surest investment we can make.

What is the meaning of Acts 15:26?
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