How can we apply the apostles' boldness in Acts 3:11 to our lives? Setting the Stage: Acts 3:11 in Context “While the man clung to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and ran to them in the colonnade called Solomon’s.” (Acts 3:11) A crippled beggar has just leapt to his feet at the name of Jesus. Instead of slipping away, Peter and John stay where everyone can see them, ready to explain what God has done. What Boldness Looked Like for Peter and John • Stayed visible when the miracle drew a crowd • Redirected attention from themselves to Christ (vv. 12–13) • Rooted every word in the prophets and promises of God (vv. 18, 24) • Called sin what it is yet offered mercy (vv. 14–19) • Ignored potential backlash from religious leaders (Acts 4:1–3) • Trusted the Holy Spirit for words and power (Acts 1:8; 4:8) Why Their Boldness Matters Today • Same Savior, same gospel—unchanged mission (Hebrews 13:8) • Culture still needs clear, compassionate truth (Romans 1:16) • Holy Spirit still indwells and empowers every believer (2 Timothy 1:7) • Boldness validates our faith as genuine (James 2:17–18) Practical Ways to Walk in the Same Boldness 1. Recognize Divine Moments – Pray each morning for “Solomon’s Colonnade” opportunities. – Stay alert to conversations, needs, or crises that open doors. 2. Keep the Spotlight on Jesus – When praised, immediately credit Christ (1 Corinthians 1:31). – Share testimonies that highlight His work, not our efforts. 3. Speak the Word, Not Opinions – Memorize key gospel Scriptures (John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3–4). – Quote the Bible naturally; God’s Word carries its own authority (Hebrews 4:12). 4. Address Sin with Grace – Name sin clearly (Acts 3:14) while offering forgiveness (v. 19). – Model Christ’s balance of truth and love (John 1:17). 5. Expect Resistance, Stand Firm – Commit Acts 4:29 to memory and pray it when intimidated. – Remember that opposition often signals effective witness (2 Timothy 3:12). 6. Depend Daily on the Spirit – Ask for fresh filling (Ephesians 5:18). – Step out before you feel confident; courage grows in action. Scriptures that Fuel Courage • Acts 4:13 – Boldness traces back to time spent with Jesus. • Matthew 10:32 – Confessing Christ publicly secures His acknowledgment. • 1 Peter 3:15 – Be ready to give an answer with gentleness and respect. • Joshua 1:9 – “Be strong and courageous… the LORD your God is with you.” Keep Stepping Out Peter and John’s boldness was not personality but Spirit-empowered conviction. The same power resides in every believer today. Stay close to Jesus, seize the moments He provides, and speak up—confident that He will use your words to draw astonished crowds to Himself. |
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