In what ways can Acts 14:6 inspire boldness in sharing the Gospel today? Setting the Scene in Acts 14:6 “they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding region,” (Acts 14:6) Paul and Barnabas had just learned of a plot to stone them in Iconium. Instead of quitting, they moved on—carrying the message of Jesus into fresh territory. Lessons on Boldness Drawn from the Verse • Boldness is not recklessness. Paul and Barnabas withdrew, yet they never abandoned the mission. • Boldness is sustained obedience. Wherever they went, the Gospel remained their priority (see Acts 14:7). • Boldness turns opposition into opportunity. Persecution widened their ministry field rather than shrinking it. • Boldness trusts divine sovereignty. God’s plan advanced precisely through their relocation (cf. Genesis 50:20). • Boldness values life but values the Gospel more (cf. Acts 20:24). Practical Steps for Sharing the Gospel Today 1. Seek Holy Spirit discernment—know when to stay, when to move (Acts 16:6-9). 2. Keep the message unchanged even when the setting changes (2 Timothy 4:2). 3. View setbacks as redirections to new listeners. Ask, “Who might God be sending me to next?” 4. Cultivate courage through Scripture memory—rehearse promises like 2 Timothy 1:7. 5. Partner with others; boldness multiplies in community (Philippians 1:14). Encouraging Verses to Fuel Courage • “And now, Lord, … enable Your servants to speak Your word with complete boldness.” (Acts 4:29) • “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” (Proverbs 28:1) • “Pray also for me, that … I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel.” (Ephesians 6:19) Takeaway Acts 14:6 shows that Spirit-empowered boldness is a steady commitment to keep proclaiming Jesus, whatever the location, whatever the resistance, trusting God to open the next door for the Gospel. |
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