Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Overview:Holy Boldness refers to the confident and courageous expression of faith and trust in God, characterized by a fearless proclamation of the Gospel and a steadfast adherence to Christian principles. This boldness is not rooted in human arrogance or self-reliance but is a divinely inspired confidence that stems from a deep relationship with God and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Biblical Foundation: The concept of Holy Boldness is woven throughout Scripture, where believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith and to speak the truth with courage. In the New Testament, the apostles exemplify this boldness in their ministry, often in the face of persecution and opposition. Key Scriptures: 1. Acts 4:29-31 : "And now, Lord, consider their threats, and enable Your servants to speak Your word with complete boldness, as You stretch out Your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.” After they had prayed, their meeting place was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly." · This passage highlights the early church's reliance on prayer and the Holy Spirit to empower them with boldness in their witness. 2. Proverbs 28:1 : "The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." · This verse contrasts the fearfulness of the wicked with the boldness of the righteous, emphasizing that true courage is a hallmark of those who live in accordance with God's will. 3. Ephesians 3:12 : "In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God’s presence with boldness and confidence." · Here, the Apostle Paul speaks of the boldness believers have in approaching God, made possible through faith in Christ. 4. 2 Timothy 1:7 : "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control." · This verse reassures believers that fear is not from God, and instead, they are endowed with power and love, enabling them to act boldly. Examples of Holy Boldness: · Peter and John: In Acts 4, Peter and John demonstrate holy boldness when they are brought before the Sanhedrin. Despite threats, they declare, "We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20). · The Apostle Paul: Throughout his missionary journeys, Paul exemplifies holy boldness, preaching the Gospel despite imprisonment, beatings, and other hardships. In Philippians 1:20 , he expresses his hope that "now as always, Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death." Characteristics of Holy Boldness: 1. Rooted in Faith: Holy Boldness is grounded in a deep trust in God's promises and His sovereignty. It is not reckless but is based on the assurance of God's presence and power. 2. Empowered by the Holy Spirit: As seen in Acts 4:31, the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in granting believers the courage to speak and act boldly for the Kingdom of God. 3. Accompanied by Love and Humility: True boldness is not abrasive or confrontational but is expressed with love and humility, seeking to glorify God and edify others. 4. Persistent in the Face of Opposition: Holy Boldness does not waver in the face of trials or persecution. It remains steadfast, trusting in God's ultimate victory. Practical Application: Believers are called to cultivate Holy Boldness in their daily lives by: · Engaging in Prayer: Seeking God's strength and guidance to speak and act boldly. · Studying Scripture: Building a strong foundation in God's Word to confidently share the Gospel. · Relying on the Holy Spirit: Being open to the Spirit's leading and empowerment in all situations. · Living Out Faith: Demonstrating boldness through actions that reflect Christ's love and truth. Holy Boldness is a vital aspect of the Christian life, enabling believers to effectively witness to the transformative power of the Gospel and to stand firm in their convictions amidst a world that often opposes the truth of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 13:6So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do to me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Christian Urged To, and Assisted In, an Express Act of Self ... "But it is Good for Me to Draw Near to God: I have Put My Trust in ... Fear and Faith De Profundis. Forms Versus Character Reform The Magnificence of Prayer An Obscured vision "Whereby we Cry, Abba, Father. " The Blood of Sprinkling (Second Sermon. ) Resources What does the Bible say about boldness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Friend in Need (Persistent Neighbor)? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about passivity / being passive? | GotQuestions.org Boldness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Boldness: Instances of, in Prayer: Abraham Boldness: Instances of, in Prayer: Moses Holy Boldness is Through Faith in Christ Holy Boldness: A Characteristic of Saints Holy Boldness: Christ Set an Example of Holy Boldness: Exhortations To Holy Boldness: Express Your Trust in God With Holy Boldness: Have, in Prayer Holy Boldness: Joseph of Arimathaea Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in Faithfulness to Their People Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in Preaching Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in Reproving Sin Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in The Face of Opposition Holy Boldness: Produced by Faithfulness to God Holy Boldness: Produced by The Fear of God Holy Boldness: Produced by Trust in God Holy Boldness: Saints Shall Have, in Judgment Related Terms |