"Amazing Boldness" | January 5, 2025 | Ps Joel Lowery

In a world that often encourages us to blend in, there's a powerful call for believers to stand out—not through ostentatious displays, but through a quiet, unwavering boldness that stems from an unshakeable faith. This boldness isn't about being loud or confrontational; it's about living with a conviction so deep that it naturally influences our behavior and choices.

The early Christian church was marked by this very quality. In the face of persecution and uncertainty, the first followers of Jesus demonstrated a courage that puzzled and amazed those around them. But what was the source of their strength? It wasn't their eloquence, education, or social standing. In fact, many were described as "ordinary men with no special training." Their power came from one simple fact: they had been with Jesus.

Consider the transformation of Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples. Before the crucifixion, Peter was known for his bold declarations but timid actions. He vowed never to forsake Jesus, yet denied Him three times when faced with potential danger. But after encountering the risen Christ and being filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter became a different man entirely. The same person who once cowered before a servant girl now stood fearlessly before the religious leaders, proclaiming the name of Jesus without hesitation.

This dramatic change illustrates a fundamental truth: boldness is behavior born out of belief. When we truly believe in the power and presence of God in our lives, it changes how we act. It's like having an unbeatable team behind you—you face challenges with confidence because you know you're not alone.

The book of Acts recounts a powerful moment when Peter and John were questioned by the Sanhedrin about healing a crippled man. Instead of shrinking back, Peter, "filled with the Holy Spirit," seized the opportunity to testify. He declared unequivocally that the healing was done in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth—the very one they had crucified but whom God raised from the dead.

Peter's boldness didn't come from his own strength or wisdom. It came from his intimate knowledge of Jesus and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. This is a crucial lesson for us today. True spiritual boldness isn't about mustering up our own courage; it's about allowing God's Spirit to work through us.

Interestingly, the name of Jesus remains as controversial today as it was 2,000 years ago. While vague spirituality is often accepted, the specific mention of Jesus can still stir strong reactions. This is because there's power in His name—power that challenges the status quo and confronts spiritual darkness.

But here's an encouraging thought: God doesn't just use the elite or the naturally courageous. He takes ordinary people—even those the world might consider "idiots"—and uses them to do extraordinary things. The key is not our own abilities, but our willingness to be used by God.

When we live with this kind of boldness, it amazes the world. It might confuse people at first—why would someone give generously without seeking recognition? Why would someone stand firm in their convictions when it's unpopular? But over time, this boldness becomes a powerful testimony that makes others curious about the source of our strength.

It's important to remember that boldness isn't the end goal—knowing Jesus is. Boldness is simply a byproduct of a deep, intimate relationship with Christ. As we grow in our knowledge of Him, we naturally become bolder in our faith. And as we step out in boldness, we experience more of Jesus, creating a beautiful cycle of growth and impact.

Proverbs 28:1 says, "The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions." When we're secure in our relationship with God, we don't need to live in fear or constantly look over our shoulders. We can move forward with confidence, knowing that God is with us.

So how do we cultivate this kind of boldness in our lives? It starts with a bold commitment. We don't enter into a relationship with Jesus secretly, hoping no one will notice. Instead, we're called to publicly declare our faith, unashamed of the gospel and its power to transform lives.

This bold commitment isn't a sign of arrogance—quite the opposite. It takes true courage to admit our need for a Savior, to declare that we are nothing without Christ. It's in this place of humble dependence that we find the strength to live boldly for God's kingdom.

As we enter this new year, let's challenge ourselves to increase in boldness. Not for our own glory, but so that more people might come to know the love and salvation found in Jesus. Let's pray for a stirring in our hearts—a holy discontent with the status quo and a burning desire to see God move in powerful ways through our lives.

Remember, a bold walk with God starts with a bold commitment. If we enter the kingdom timidly, we'll likely live timid Christian lives. But if we boldly declare our allegiance to Christ, acknowledging Him as our King and Savior, we open the door to a life of adventure, purpose, and transformative impact.

So today, let's make that bold commitment. Let's declare, without shame or hesitation, that Jesus is Lord of our lives. Let's ask the Holy Spirit to fill us afresh, empowering us to live with a boldness that amazes the world and draws others to the love of Christ.

In a world desperately in need of hope, your bold faith could be the light that leads someone to Jesus. Will you answer the call to live boldly for Him?