How can we pray for boldness in sharing the gospel like Paul requests? Setting the Scene • Ephesians 6 places Paul’s request inside full spiritual-warfare armor. • From prison, he writes: “Pray also for me, that the words may be given to me when I open my mouth, so that I may boldly proclaim the mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19). • The surrounding verses remind us that evangelism is contested ground; prayer is the supply line. What Paul Asked For • Words supplied by God—content, timing, tone. • Boldness (Greek parrēsia)—freedom of speech without fear, hesitation, or compromise. • Clear proclamation of “the mystery of the gospel”—Christ crucified, risen, and available to all. Why Boldness Matters • The message is exclusive yet offered to everyone (Acts 4:12). • Human hearts naturally resist (1 Corinthians 2:14). • Opposition ranges from ridicule to persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). • Boldness shows confidence in God’s truth and love, not in ourselves (2 Corinthians 3:4-5). Key Ingredients for Bold Gospel Prayers • Spirit empowerment – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (Acts 1:8). – Ask for fresh filling as in Acts 4:31. • Right words – Luke 12:11-12 promises Spirit-given utterance. – Pray for clarity like Paul did again in Colossians 4:3-4. • Love-driven motive – “For Christ’s love compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14). – Boldness without love becomes noise (1 Corinthians 13:1). • Freedom from fear – “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). – Pray that reverence for God outweighs fear of people (Proverbs 29:25). • Open doors and open hearts – “A wide door for effective work has opened to me” (1 Corinthians 16:9). – “The Lord opened her heart” (Acts 16:14). – Pray for both circumstances and receptivity. • Perseverance amid resistance – Paul kept speaking “in much conflict” (1 Thessalonians 2:2). – Ask for courage to stay the course. Biblical Examples of God-Given Boldness • Acts 4:29-31—The church prays; the place shakes; they speak “the word of God with boldness.” • Acts 13:46—Paul and Barnabas “spoke out boldly” when opposed. • Acts 18:9-10—The Lord tells Paul in Corinth, “Do not be afraid… speak, for I am with you.” • 2 Timothy 4:17—Near the end of his life, Paul testifies, “The Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that the message would be fully proclaimed.” Practical Ways to Pray Today • Begin each day asking for one clear opportunity and the courage to seize it. • Pray Scripture—insert names into passages like Acts 4:29 or Ephesians 6:19. • Partner with others; boldness spreads in community (Philippians 1:14). • Keep a journal of answered requests to fuel gratitude and future petitions. • Fast occasionally for loved ones who seem unreachable; fasting humbles and sharpens focus. • Before conversations, whisper a quick request for Spirit-given words. • After sharing, pray for the seed to take root (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Encouragement to Keep Going The same Lord who empowered Paul stands ready to empower anyone who asks. Scripture is true, the gospel still saves, and the Spirit still grants boldness. Keep praying; keep speaking. Eternity will reveal the fruit. |
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