How can we courageously speak truth to authority figures in today's society? The Scene: Courage on Display in Matthew 14:4 “for John had been telling him, ‘It is not lawful for you to have her.’” (Matthew 14:4) John the Baptist, fully aware of Herod’s power to imprison or kill, still declares God’s standard. This single sentence is a master-class in holy boldness. Why John Spoke Up • God’s law was clear (Leviticus 18:16; 20:21). • Herod’s sin was public, so public rebuke was warranted (1 Timothy 5:20). • John feared God more than man (Proverbs 29:25). • The prophet’s role demanded truth-telling (Malachi 2:7). A Pattern Woven Through Scripture • Nathan to David – “You are the man!” (2 Samuel 12:7). • Elijah to Ahab – “You have abandoned the LORD’s commands.” (1 Kings 18:18). • Daniel to Nebuchadnezzar – “Break off your sins.” (Daniel 4:27). • Peter & John to the Sanhedrin – “We cannot stop speaking.” (Acts 4:20). • Paul to Felix – “On righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment.” (Acts 24:25). These accounts confirm a consistent, literal call: God’s people confront unrighteous authority with His unchanging Word. Principles for Today 1. Scripture, not opinion, is the standard (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 2. Boldness is Spirit-given, not personality-driven (Acts 4:31; 2 Timothy 1:7). 3. Truth must be paired with love (Ephesians 4:15). 4. Consequences are real, but eternal reward outweighs them (Matthew 5:11-12). 5. Authority figures are image-bearers who need the gospel (1 Timothy 2:3-4). Practical Steps for Courageous Truth-Telling • Soak in the Word daily; conviction grows where Scripture dwells. • Pray for open doors and the right words (Colossians 4:3-4). • Check motives: seek God’s glory, not personal vindication. • State the biblical truth plainly; avoid hedging or spin. • Speak with respectful tone and demeanor (1 Peter 3:15-16). • Accept potential fallout; entrust outcomes to the Lord (1 Peter 4:19). • Keep relationships open for further gospel conversation. Guarding Our Hearts While Confronting Power • Remember Christ’s example: “I have spoken openly to the world” (John 18:20). • Resist bitterness; forgive quickly (Ephesians 4:32). • Stay accountable to a faithful community (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Rejoice when suffering confirms loyalty to Christ (Acts 5:41). Motivation: The Honor of Christ Ultimately, we speak because Jesus is Lord: “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) His name is worth any risk, and His Word remains the final authority—yesterday, today, and forever. |
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