How can we apply the apostles' boldness in sharing the gospel today? Lystra: An Unexpected Stage for Courage “In Lystra sat a man crippled in his feet, who was lame from birth and had never walked.” (Acts 14:8) • Paul and Barnabas stepped into a pagan city with no synagogue, no believing community, and no external support. • The need before them—a man disabled from birth—was impossible by human standards. • Instead of retreating, the apostles spoke, acted, and trusted God to verify the message through a public miracle. Key Traits of Apostolic Boldness • Confidence in God’s power, not their own reputation (Acts 14:9–10). • Willingness to speak publicly even when misunderstood (vv. 11–18). • Refusal to soften the gospel when hostility followed (vv. 19–22). • Continual return to gospel proclamation despite danger (v. 21). Convictions That Fueled Their Courage • The gospel is God’s power for salvation (Romans 1:16). • The risen Christ promises His presence (Matthew 28:20). • The Spirit emboldens believers (2 Timothy 1:7; John 15:26–27). • Eternal reward outweighs earthly risk (2 Corinthians 4:17). Translating Boldness to Our World • See every setting—office, classroom, neighborhood—as today’s “Lystra.” • Expect God to open doors through visible needs: illness, anxiety, broken relationships. • Speak the name of Jesus clearly; compassion without gospel words leaves people spiritually lame. • Endure misunderstanding with patience; clarification often follows initial confusion. • Keep returning to gospel conversations even after rejection; faithfulness outlasts opposition. Practical Habits That Nurture Courage 1. Daily Scripture intake—let God’s promises saturate the mind. 2. Prayer for open doors and fearless words (Acts 4:29; Ephesians 6:19–20). 3. Regular testimonies—share recent answers to prayer with fellow believers to strengthen mutual boldness. 4. Intentional presence among unbelievers—be accessible, not isolated. 5. Small, immediate obedience—offer to pray, give a tract, invite to church; repeated steps build spiritual muscle. Scriptural Anchors for Ongoing Confidence • Acts 4:29: “And now, Lord, consider their threats, and enable Your servants to speak Your word with complete boldness.” • Ephesians 6:19–20: “Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, divine utterance may be given me…that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.” • 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Romans 1:16: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” • John 15:27: “And you also must testify, because you have been with Me from the beginning.” Next Steps in Faithful Boldness Commit today to one tangible act of gospel witness, rely on the Spirit’s enabling, and trust the Lord to turn ordinary moments into Lystra-sized opportunities. |
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