In what ways can we overcome fear to share the gospel like Paul? Reading the Anchor Verse “So I am eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome.” (Romans 1:15) Why Fear Sneaks In • We worry about rejection or ridicule. • We feel unqualified or tongue-tied. • We forget the power and authority behind the message. Truths That Replace Fear • The gospel itself carries God’s power. “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16) • Christ’s authority overrides human opposition. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” (Matthew 28:18) • The Spirit equips us. “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Love pushes fear aside. “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear.” (1 John 4:18) Practical Steps to Live Romans 1:15 Today 1. Ground yourself daily in the gospel’s power • Read or recite Romans 1:16–17 each morning. • Thank God aloud for the specific ways the gospel rescued you. 2. Rely on the Holy Spirit, not sheer willpower • Ask the Spirit to fill you before conversations (Ephesians 5:18). • Expect His boldness: “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” (Acts 4:31) 3. Remember who sends you • Picture Christ’s authority standing behind you (Matthew 28:18-20). • Rest in His promise: “I am with you always.” 4. Let love for people eclipse self-consciousness • Meditate on 2 Corinthians 5:14—“For Christ’s love compels us.” • Pray by name for those who need Christ; compassion fuels courage. 5. Start small and build momentum • Share a brief testimony with a friend. • Offer to pray for a coworker’s need. • Hand out a gospel tract with a kind word. • Each step trains courage muscles (Philippians 1:14). 6. Speak plainly, trusting God with the results • Follow Paul’s pattern: “My message and my preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power.” (1 Corinthians 2:4) • Leave the outcome in God’s hands; your obedience is the success. A Closing Encouragement Paul’s eagerness in Romans 1:15 was not personality-driven but gospel-driven. The same Spirit, authority, and love that steadied him stands ready to steady us. Move forward in simple, daily obedience, and watch fear fade while Christ is made known. |
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