How can we apply Paul's boldness in Acts 21:39 to our evangelism today? A snapshot of Paul’s courage “ But Paul replied, ‘I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please allow me to speak to the people.’ ” (Acts 21:39) Surrounded by an angry mob, chained, and misunderstood, Paul calmly identifies himself and asks for a platform. His confidence in God’s sovereign hand makes him fearless, direct, and winsomely respectful. Why his boldness matters for us • Scripture records this moment so we will imitate it (Romans 15:4). • The same Spirit who empowered Paul indwells every believer (Acts 1:8; 2 Timothy 1:7). • Bold testimony is a commanded norm, not an optional extra (Ephesians 6:19-20; Acts 4:31). Principles we can lift straight from the text 1. Know and declare your identity • Paul began with who he was. We begin with whose we are. • “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26). • Confidence in adoption silences fear of rejection (Proverbs 28:1). 2. Leverage every stewarded advantage • Roman citizenship, education, language skills—Paul used them without apology (Acts 16:37-38; 22:25-29). • Today: passports, workplaces, social media, education—gifts to steward for gospel access (Colossians 4:5). 3. Ask for the microphone • “Please allow me to speak…” He didn’t wait for perfect conditions. • We too ask for open doors (Colossians 4:3), trusting God to swing them wide or shut them with purpose. 4. Boldness blended with courtesy • Paul addressed the commander respectfully. • “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). Courage is never rudeness. 5. Expect hostility yet refuse intimidation • The mob listened, then erupted again (Acts 22:22). Paul was undeterred. • Jesus promised the same mix of opportunity and opposition (Matthew 10:16-20). Putting Paul-style boldness into everyday practice • Start conversations with clear identity markers—“I’m a follower of Jesus…” sets the tone. • Carry a gospel summary ready to share in two minutes (1 Peter 3:15). • Use your story: hometown, vocation, or hobby as a bridge, just as Paul used Tarsus. • Politely request permission—“May I tell you why Christ matters to me?” People often say yes. • Trust the Spirit to supply words in the moment (Luke 12:11-12). • Refuse embarrassment over Scripture’s claims (Romans 1:16). • When doors close, pray and look for the next audience (Acts 18:6-7). • Encourage fellow believers by retelling God-given opportunities—boldness is contagious (Philippians 1:14). Heart motivations that fuel courage • Gratitude for redemption (2 Corinthians 5:14). • Certainty of eternal hope (2 Corinthians 4:13-14). • Assurance that God’s Word “will not return void” (Isaiah 55:11). • Love for lost neighbors (Romans 9:1-3). The promised outcome “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) Bold, humble, Spirit-filled speech never returns empty. Paul’s single sentence in Acts 21:39 still echoes, urging today’s church to stand up, speak out, and expect God to move. |
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