How can we share Jesus' works like in Matthew 9:31 without fear today? Seeing the Pattern in Matthew 9:31 “But they went out and spread the news about Him throughout the land.” Two newly healed men couldn’t keep quiet. Sight was new, Jesus was real, and the urge to tell eclipsed every possible consequence. That same impulse can be ours today. Recognize the Same Jesus at Work Today • He still saves (Romans 10:13). • He still heals (James 5:15). • He still delivers from darkness (Colossians 1:13). When we remember that His power has not dimmed, courage rises. Why Fear Tries to Silence Us • Fear of rejection—“What will they think of me?” • Fear of inadequacy—“What if I can’t answer every question?” • Fear of hostility—“What if sharing costs me something?” All three lose their grip when we weigh them against eternal realities. God’s Provision for Courage • Empowering Spirit – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” (Acts 1:8) • Sound mind – “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Constant presence – “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) • Fear-crushing promise – “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6) Practical Ways to Speak Boldly Today 1. Share your story. People may debate theology, but they can’t refute a changed life (John 9:25). 2. Quote Scripture naturally. God’s word carries its own authority (Isaiah 55:11). 3. Use everyday settings—coffee breaks, social media, neighborhood walks. 4. Ask permission to tell what Jesus has done; respect often opens doors. 5. Keep it simple: Who Jesus is, what He did for you, how others can respond (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Start Where You Are • Family first (Mark 5:19). • Friends and co-workers next (Acts 16:31-34). • Strangers as God arranges divine appointments (John 4:7-26). When Opposition Comes • Expect it—“If the world hates you, know that it hated Me first.” (John 15:18). • Respond gently—“Always be prepared to give an answer…with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15). • Rejoice in identification with Christ—“Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” (Matthew 5:12). Celebrate the Impact Every time you speak, seeds are sown (1 Corinthians 3:6). Some sprout immediately, others later, but none are wasted. Like the once-blind men, let gratitude overflow into speech, and watch the news of Jesus spread “throughout the land” all over again. |
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