How can we apply the apostles' courage in Acts 4:9 to our lives? Starting With the Verse “Acts 4:9: ‘If we are being examined today about a kind service to a man who was lame, to determine how he was healed…’” The Scene Behind the Statement • Peter and John had just healed a man born lame (Acts 3:1-10). • Religious leaders arrested them for preaching Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 4:1-3). • Instead of shrinking back, the apostles spoke plainly before the Sanhedrin, crediting Jesus alone for the miracle (Acts 4:10-12). • Their bold stance amazed even hostile authorities, who “recognized that they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). Courage on Display • Confidence in Christ’s power: the healed beggar was living proof (Acts 4:14). • Conviction that Jesus is the exclusive Savior: “There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). • Willingness to face consequences: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). Truths That Fuel Courage Today • Jesus is alive and still heals—physically, spiritually, emotionally (Hebrews 13:8). • The Holy Spirit supplies “power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Christ’s authority outranks every earthly authority (Matthew 28:18; Acts 5:29). • Suffering for His name is honorable and rewarded (1 Peter 4:14). Putting Courage into Practice • Abide in Christ daily—time in Scripture and fellowship keeps boldness fresh (John 15:4-5). • Recall past “kind services” God has done in your life; testimony builds courage. • Speak truth graciously yet plainly, trusting results to God (Ephesians 4:15). • Pray specifically for bold words, as the early church did (Acts 4:29-31). • Stand united with other believers; courage is contagious (Philippians 1:14). • Accept potential backlash as part of discipleship (Luke 9:23-26). Encouraging Promises to Remember • “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 • “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” Proverbs 28:1 • “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 Hold these truths close, and the same Spirit who emboldened the apostles will empower you to stand firm and speak life wherever God places you today. |
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