What role does courage play in sharing the gospel, as seen in Acts 5:26? Setting the Scene The apostles have been preaching Christ in Jerusalem, healing the sick, and filling the city with the good news. Religious leaders arrest them, yet an angel releases them and commands, “Go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life” (cf. Acts 5:19-20). By dawn they are back, proclaiming Jesus again. Courage in Contrast: Acts 5:26 “Then the captain went with the officers and brought the apostles—but without violence, for they feared the people would stone them.” • The temple guard is ruled by fear of public backlash. • The apostles, by contrast, keep preaching despite the threat of arrest, trial, or worse. • Luke quietly highlights two opposing motivations: fear of man versus fear of God. Why Courage Matters in Sharing the Gospel • Courage frees messengers from intimidation, allowing the message to stay clear and uncompromised. • It exposes the weakness of worldly power; the authorities tremble while the apostles stand firm. • It validates the truth of the resurrection—ordinary men become fearless witnesses because they have met the risen Christ. • It protects obedience: “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). Gospel advance hinges on that resolve. • It encourages the believing community; boldness is contagious (Acts 4:31, 14:3). Roots of Apostolic Courage 1. Certainty of Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 1:3). 2. Filling of the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:8, 31). 3. Clear commission from heaven (Acts 1:8; 5:19-20). 4. Eternal perspective—better to suffer temporarily than to dishonor God eternally (Matthew 10:28). 5. United fellowship; they stand together, pray together, and suffer together (Acts 4:23-24; 5:41). Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Anchor courage in unshakeable truths—the resurrection, Scripture, and Christ’s promises. • Pray for Spirit-given boldness; courage grows in communion with God (Ephesians 6:19-20). • Remember the audience of One; fear of God dissolves fear of people (Proverbs 29:25). • Stand with other believers; shared mission fuels shared bravery (Philippians 1:27-30). • Expect opposition; courage is not absence of threats but faithfulness amid them (2 Timothy 3:12). Supporting Scriptures • Acts 4:19-20 — “Whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God, you must judge; for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” • 1 Thessalonians 2:2 — “Though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated… we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God amid much opposition.” • Ephesians 6:19-20 — Paul asks prayer “that I may proclaim it boldly, as I ought to speak.” • 2 Timothy 1:7 — “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Hebrews 10:35 — “So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward.” Summing Up Acts 5:26 quietly showcases a fearful guard and fearless apostles. The scene underscores that gospel advance depends on Spirit-empowered courage—courage that obeys God, not human threats, and keeps proclaiming Christ no matter the cost. |
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