How can believers today boldly proclaim Jesus' power like in Acts 4:9? Revisiting Acts 4:9 “If we are being examined today for a kind service to a man who was lame and are asked how he was healed,” (Acts 4:9) Peter is on trial, yet he frames the hearing as an opportunity to spotlight Jesus. The same approach fuels bold witness in any generation. Foundations for Fearless Witness • Conviction that Jesus is alive and still heals, saves, and transforms (Acts 4:10; Hebrews 13:8). • Confidence that Scripture is true, sufficient, and authoritative (2 Timothy 3:16). • Dependence on the filling of the Holy Spirit, who supplies courage (Acts 4:31; 2 Timothy 1:7). Let the Spirit Supply the Courage • Ask Him daily to fill and guide (Ephesians 5:18). • Trust His promise to give words in the moment (Luke 12:11-12). • Yield quickly when He prompts you to speak the name of Jesus (Acts 5:32). Show Compassion First, Then Explain the Power Peter’s boldness followed a visible act of mercy—the healing of the lame man (Acts 3:6-8). • Meet practical needs around you; love earns a hearing (James 2:15-17). • Point beyond the deed to the Savior who enabled it (Matthew 5:16). Speak the Name above Every Name • Declare Jesus explicitly, not just “faith” or “religion” (Acts 4:10-12). • Keep the message simple: His death, resurrection, and exclusive power to save (1 Corinthians 2:2; Romans 1:16). • Use Scripture; it carries intrinsic authority (Hebrews 4:12). Stay Scripture-Saturated • Memorize key gospel passages (Romans 3:23-24; 6:23; 10:9). • Meditate until your heart overflows; “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). • Share verses naturally in conversation (Colossians 3:16-17). Expect Resistance, Respond with Grace • Opposition confirms you are on the right track (2 Timothy 3:12). • Answer with humility and respect (1 Peter 3:15). • Rejoice that you are counted worthy to suffer for His name (Acts 5:41). Everyday Practices for Boldness • Begin the day acknowledging Christ’s lordship. • Carry gospel literature or digital links to share. • Look for “door-opening” comments—pain, fear, brokenness—and offer hope in Jesus. • Share personal testimony: “Here’s what Jesus did for me.” • Follow up; boldness continues after the first conversation. Living Proof Backs Up Spoken Words • Integrity at work and home authenticates the message (Philippians 2:14-16). • A lifestyle of prayer reveals dependence on God’s power (Colossians 4:2-4). • Unity with other believers amplifies the witness (John 13:35). Encouragement for Today The same Spirit who emboldened Peter stands ready to empower you. As you lean on Scripture, showcase Christ’s compassion, and speak His mighty name, you carry forward the unbroken testimony of Acts: Jesus is alive, and His power still changes everything. |
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