How does Peter's boldness in Acts 2:14 inspire your own faith sharing? Setting the Scene “Then Peter stood with the Eleven, raised his voice, and addressed them…” (BSB, Acts 2:14) Peter’s Bold Stand - Stood up publicly after recent failure (Luke 22:54-62) - Spoke clearly to a diverse, curious, and skeptical crowd - Anchored every point in Scripture (see Acts 2:16-36) - Trusted the Spirit promised by Jesus (Acts 1:8 — “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.”) What Peter’s Example Teaches Us - Boldness is possible for ordinary believers; Peter was a fisherman, not a trained orator. - The Spirit transforms fear into courage (2 Timothy 1:7 — “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power…”). - Our past failures do not disqualify us; repentance restores usefulness. - Standing “with the Eleven” shows the strength of united witness; we seldom speak alone. - Raising the voice implies clarity and conviction, not arrogance. Practices for Cultivating Gospel Boldness • Stay filled with the Word: daily reading keeps truth on the tongue. • Pray for open doors and open mouths (Colossians 4:3-4). • Fellowship with courageous believers; courage is contagious. • Memorize key gospel Scriptures for ready recall. • Step out in small ways—each testimony strengthens the next. Encouraging Promises from Scripture - Romans 1:16 — “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God…” - Matthew 10:32 — “Whoever confesses Me before men, I will confess him before My Father…” - 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to give an answer…with gentleness and respect.” A Final Charge The same Spirit who emboldened Peter now indwells every believer. Lean on His power, stand with fellow Christians, speak Scripture with love, and watch God use your voice to draw others to Christ. |