How can we apply Peter's boldness in Acts 3:4 to evangelism today? Setting the Stage Acts 3 opens with Peter and John heading to the temple at the hour of prayer. A man lame from birth stretches out his hand for alms. Verse 4 captures the pivotal moment: “Peter looked directly at him, as did John. ‘Look at us!’ said Peter”. This single sentence radiates courageous confidence—Peter is not hiding, mumbling, or avoiding eye contact. He commands attention, ready to declare Jesus’ power. Defining Biblical Boldness • More than personality: Boldness is Spirit-empowered courage to speak and act for Christ despite opposition (Acts 4:31). • Rooted in truth: Confidence flows from the certainty that the gospel is “the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). • Marked by clarity: Peter’s “Look at us!” slices through distraction, focusing the listener on the message of Jesus. Anchors of Peter’s Boldness 1. Filled with the Spirit (Acts 2:4; 4:8) 2. Witness to the resurrected Christ (Acts 2:32) 3. Obedience to Christ’s commission (Matthew 28:19-20) 4. Awareness of spiritual authority: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!” (Acts 3:6) 5. Freedom from self-reliance: “Silver or gold I do not have…”—his confidence rested in what Christ could do, not in personal resources. Steps to Walk in Similar Boldness Today • Seek continual filling with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). • Stand on Scripture’s promises—memorize key verses like 2 Timothy 1:7 and Proverbs 28:1. • Maintain eye-level engagement. Whether in a café or on a video call, look people in the eye; genuine attention disarms defenses. • Speak plainly and confidently about Jesus, avoiding hedging language (“Maybe,” “I think”). • Offer what you do have: testimony, Scripture, prayer. Let Christ supply the rest. • Expect God to work. Peter anticipated a miracle; we anticipate new birth (John 3:3-8). • Keep the focus on Christ’s name, not personal charisma. Practical Evangelism Scenarios • One-on-one conversation: Start with attentive listening, then lovingly direct the person to “look” at the gospel—share a concise testimony, a verse, and an invitation to respond. • Workplace dialogue: When a colleague expresses need, offer to pray on the spot. A simple “May I pray with you right now?” mirrors Peter’s immediate action. • Campus outreach: Engage students with a confident greeting, eye contact, and a clear statement: “Can I share with you the most important message I’ve ever heard?” • Community service: While meeting material needs, articulate that ultimate hope comes through Jesus, not merely through resources we provide. Guardrails for Christlike Boldness • Combine courage with compassion—Peter “helped him up” (Acts 3:7). • Remain humble; boldness is not arrogance (Philippians 2:3-4). • Submit to Scripture’s ethics; never manipulate or coerce (2 Corinthians 4:2). • Persevere when rejected; the apostles rejoiced they were counted worthy to suffer (Acts 5:41). Encouragement from Scripture • “When they saw the boldness of Peter and John…they marveled and took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). • “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). • “The righteous are as bold as a lion” (Proverbs 28:1). Peter’s fearless “Look at us!” becomes a template: Spirit-filled believers, certain of the risen Christ, lovingly command attention and point every eye to Jesus. Embrace that same boldness, and the gospel will continue to change lives today. |
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