Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ImportanceHoly boldness refers to the courage and confidence that ministers of the Gospel are called to exhibit when preaching the Word of God. This boldness is not rooted in human arrogance or self-assurance but in the power and authority of the Holy Spirit. It is a divine enablement that allows ministers to proclaim the truth of Scripture fearlessly, regardless of opposition or potential repercussions. Biblical Foundation The concept of holy boldness is deeply rooted in Scripture. The Apostle Paul serves as a quintessential example of this trait. In Ephesians 6:19-20 , Paul requests prayer "that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." Here, Paul acknowledges his dependence on divine empowerment to preach with boldness. Similarly, in Acts 4:29-31 , the early church prays for boldness in the face of persecution: "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." The result of this prayer was that "they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly." Characteristics of Holy Boldness 1. Rooted in Truth: Holy boldness is grounded in the truth of God's Word. Ministers are called to preach the whole counsel of God without compromise, as seen in 2 Timothy 4:2 : "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction." 2. Empowered by the Holy Spirit: True boldness in preaching is a result of the Holy Spirit's work. Acts 1:8 promises, "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." 3. Fearless in the Face of Opposition: Ministers exhibiting holy boldness do not shy away from proclaiming the Gospel, even when faced with hostility. In Acts 5:29 , Peter and the apostles declare, "We must obey God rather than men," demonstrating their commitment to God's command over human authority. 4. Driven by Love and Compassion: While boldness involves courage, it is also motivated by love for God and others. Ephesians 4:15 instructs believers to "speak the truth in love," ensuring that boldness is not harsh or abrasive but compassionate and edifying. Examples in Church History Throughout church history, many ministers have exemplified holy boldness. Figures such as Martin Luther, who stood firm during the Reformation, and Charles Spurgeon, known for his powerful and uncompromising sermons, serve as models of this divine courage. Their ministries were marked by a steadfast commitment to biblical truth and a fearless proclamation of the Gospel. Application for Modern Ministers In today's world, where cultural pressures and opposition to biblical truth are prevalent, ministers are called to exhibit holy boldness more than ever. This involves a commitment to prayer, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a deep conviction in the authority of Scripture. By doing so, ministers can effectively fulfill their calling to be ambassadors for Christ, proclaiming His message with clarity and courage. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 4:31And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Philippians 1:14 Library The Preacher's Cry --Pray for Us! Christ's People --Imitators of Him Paul's Sermon Before Felix Of the Jurisdiction of the Church, and the Abuses of It, as ... Of the Popish Mass. How it not Only Profanes, but Annihilates the ... The Historical Books. 1 the New Testament... Life of Bunyan Instructions to Converts. Paul's Departure and Crown; Caesar Fell Down. Resources What is the importance and value of group prayer? | GotQuestions.orgIs there evidence that God answers prayer? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say that would apply to selfie culture? | 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 |
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