How can we overcome fear in witnessing, as seen in Mark 16:8? Mark 16:8 — the starting point “They went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had seized them. And they said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.” What fear looks like in witnessing • Trembling – the body reacts. • Astonishment – the mind races. • Silence – the mouth closes. The first eyewitnesses of the risen Lord felt exactly what we feel when facing the task of telling others: real, paralyzing fear. Why fear rises in our hearts • Awareness of opposition (John 15:18–19). • Concern for reputation (Galatians 1:10). • Personal inadequacy (“I’m not eloquent,” Exodus 4:10). • Spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:12). How Scripture shows fear conquered • The women eventually spoke (Matthew 28:8–10). Encountering Jesus turned trembling into testimony. • Peter moved from denial to proclamation (Acts 2:14–36). The Holy Spirit made the difference. • Paul asked for boldness even after years of ministry (Ephesians 6:19–20). Courage is continually supplied. God’s resources for fearless witness 1. The risen Christ – “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18). – We speak under His lordship, not our own strength. 2. The Holy Spirit – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8). – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). 3. The sure Word – “The gospel … is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). – Truth itself carries divine force; we simply deliver it. 4. The promise of presence – “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). – Fear fades when we sense we are never alone. Practical ways to step past fear • Start with prayerful dependence on the Spirit before any conversation. • Memorize key gospel verses; familiarity breeds confidence. • Share personal testimony—no one can refute what Christ did in you. • Begin in natural settings: family, friends, everyday interactions. • Pair up; Jesus sent disciples two by two (Mark 6:7). • Accept small beginnings. A sentence today can open a door tomorrow. • Celebrate each act of obedience rather than visible results. Scripture promises to keep close • Joshua 1:9 – “Be strong and courageous … the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” • Psalm 56:3–4 – “When I am afraid, I will trust in You … what can man do to me?” • 1 Peter 3:15 – “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defense … with gentleness and respect.” Living the lesson The women left the tomb in silence, but the story didn’t end there—news of the resurrection spread to the ends of the earth. Their initial fear highlights our own, yet the risen Christ, His indwelling Spirit, and His unfailing Word supply everything needed for bold, loving witness today. Stepping out in that provision turns trembling into testimony, silence into proclamation. |
    |