Topical Encyclopedia Courage in delivering God's message is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, exemplified by prophets, apostles, and other faithful servants who boldly proclaimed God's truth despite facing opposition, persecution, or personal risk. This courage is often portrayed as a divine empowerment, enabling God's messengers to fulfill their calling with steadfastness and faith.Old Testament Examples 1. Moses: Moses is a quintessential example of courage in delivering God's message. Initially hesitant and fearful, Moses was called by God to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite his initial reluctance, Moses obeyed God's command, demonstrating courage in the face of Pharaoh's hardened heart and the daunting task of leading a rebellious people. In Exodus 3:11-12, God reassures Moses, saying, "I will surely be with you." 2. Elijah: The prophet Elijah displayed remarkable courage when he confronted King Ahab and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. In 1 Kings 18:21, Elijah challenged the people of Israel, saying, "How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him." Elijah's boldness in standing alone against the false prophets and calling down fire from heaven exemplifies the courage required to deliver God's message. 3. Jeremiah: Known as the "weeping prophet," Jeremiah faced intense opposition and persecution for delivering God's message of impending judgment to Judah. Despite being mocked, imprisoned, and threatened with death, Jeremiah remained faithful to his calling. In Jeremiah 1:8, God encourages him, "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you." New Testament Examples 1. John the Baptist: John the Baptist's ministry was marked by his fearless proclamation of repentance and the coming of the Messiah. He boldly confronted the religious leaders of his day, calling them a "brood of vipers" (Matthew 3:7) and fearlessly rebuked Herod for his unlawful marriage, which ultimately led to his imprisonment and execution. 2. The Apostles: After the resurrection of Jesus, the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and courageously proclaimed the gospel, despite facing severe persecution. In Acts 4:19-20, Peter and John, when commanded to stop teaching in the name of Jesus, replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to listen to you rather than God. For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard." 3. Paul: The Apostle Paul exemplified courage in delivering God's message throughout his missionary journeys. Despite being beaten, imprisoned, and facing numerous hardships, Paul remained steadfast in his mission. In 2 Timothy 1:7-8, Paul writes, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord." The Source of Courage The courage to deliver God's message is often attributed to the presence and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8, Jesus promises His disciples, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This divine empowerment emboldens believers to speak the truth with conviction and without fear. Encouragement for Believers Believers are encouraged to seek God's strength and courage in delivering His message. In Joshua 1:9, God commands Joshua, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." This assurance of God's presence and support is a source of courage for all who are called to proclaim His truth. Subtopics Courage: Enjoined by Jehoshaphat Upon the Judicial and Executive officers be Appointed Courage: Ezra, in Undertaking the Perilous Journey from Babylon to Palestine Without a Guard Courage: Personal Bravery in Entering Into the Tent of Saul, and Carrying Away Saul's Spear Courage: Personal Bravery: Agag, in the Indifference With Which he Faced Death Courage: Personal Bravery: David, in Killing Goliath Courage: Personal Bravery: David's Captains Courage: Personal Bravery: Deborah, in Leading Israel's Armies Courage: Personal Bravery: Esther, in Going to the King to Save Her People Courage: Personal Bravery: Jael, in Killing Sisera Courage: Personal Bravery: Joab, in Reproving King David Courage: Personal Bravery: Joseph of Arimathaea, in Caring for the Body of Jesus Courage: Personal Bravery: Joshua and Caleb, in Advising That Israel Go at Once and Possess the Land Courage: Personal Bravery: Nehemiah, in Refusing to Take Refuge in the Temple Courage: Personal Bravery: Othniel, in Striking Kirjath-Sepher Courage: Personal Bravery: Peter and Other Disciples Courage: Personal Bravery: The Apostles, Under Persecution Courage: Personal Bravery: Thomas, in Being Willing to Die With Jesus Courage: Scriptures Relating To Courage: The Courage of Conviction in offering Isaac Courage: The Courage of Conviction: Abraham, in Leaving his Fatherland Courage: The Courage of Conviction: Gideon, in Destroying the Altar of Baal Courage: The Courage of Conviction: Peter and John, in Refusing to Obey Men, Rather than God Courage: The Courage of Conviction: The Jews, in Returning Answer to Tatnai Related Terms Self-disparagement (1 Occurrence) |