In what ways can we apply Jeremiah's boldness in speaking truth today? Jeremiah 37:17 — A Snapshot of Fearless Proclamation “Then King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah and received him. The king asked him secretly in his palace, ‘Is there a word from the LORD?’ ‘There is,’ Jeremiah replied. ‘You will be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon.’” What We Notice about Jeremiah’s Boldness • He speaks God’s message exactly as received—no edits, no softening • He tells the king hard truth, knowing it may cost him more prison time • He shows greater fear of God than fear of man (cf. Matthew 10:28) Why This Matters for Us • Truth is still truth even when it threatens comfort or reputation • People still “ask secretly” for a Word from the Lord; they need clear answers • Boldness testifies that we trust God’s sovereignty over human reactions Practical Ways to Live Out Jeremiah-Like Boldness Today • Stay saturated in Scripture so you have a fresh, accurate word to share • Pray daily for courage; boldness is a Spirit-given trait (Acts 4:31) • Prioritize pleasing God over pleasing people (Galatians 1:10) • Speak plainly and lovingly—clarity without cruelty (Ephesians 4:15) • Accept possible pushback or loss; resolve beforehand to obey (Daniel 3:16-18) • Keep integrity visible: let actions echo words, strengthening credibility • Use whatever platform you have—home, workplace, social media—to testify faithfully Supporting Passages That Reinforce Courageous Truth-Telling • Proverbs 28:1 — “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” • 2 Timothy 4:2 — “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” • Acts 4:19-20 — Peter and John: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” • Ephesians 6:19-20 — Paul asks prayer “that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.” The Takeaway Jeremiah shows that boldness is simply faithful obedience under pressure. When we stay rooted in God’s Word, nurture reverence for Him above all, and open our mouths with both conviction and compassion, we carry the same fearless torch into today’s world. |