Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ImportanceHoly boldness refers to the courage and confidence that ministers of the Gospel are called to exhibit when proclaiming the truth of God's Word, especially in the face of opposition. This boldness is not rooted in human strength or arrogance but is a divine empowerment by the Holy Spirit, enabling ministers to stand firm in their convictions and faithfully deliver God's message regardless of the challenges they encounter. Biblical Foundation The concept of holy boldness is deeply rooted in Scripture, where numerous examples illustrate the necessity for ministers to remain steadfast and courageous. The Apostle Paul serves as a quintessential model of holy boldness. In his letter to the Ephesians, he requests prayer for boldness in proclaiming the Gospel: "Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given to me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel" (Ephesians 6:19). Similarly, the early apostles exemplified this boldness in the face of persecution. In Acts 4:29, the believers prayed, "And now, Lord, consider their threats, and enable Your servants to speak Your word with complete boldness" . This prayer was answered as they continued to preach with great courage despite the threats from religious authorities. Characteristics of Holy Boldness 1. Reliance on the Holy Spirit: Holy boldness is not a natural trait but a supernatural gift. Ministers must rely on the Holy Spirit for the strength and courage to speak truthfully and fearlessly. Acts 4:31 illustrates this reliance: "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" . 2. Commitment to Truth: Ministers exhibiting holy boldness are unwavering in their commitment to the truth of Scripture. They prioritize God's Word above human opinion or societal pressures, as seen in Paul's declaration, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes" (Romans 1:16). 3. Fearlessness in the Face of Opposition: Holy boldness involves a fearless attitude towards opposition. This is evident in the life of Peter and John, who, when commanded not to speak in the name of Jesus, replied, "We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20). 4. Perseverance: Ministers with holy boldness persevere through trials and persecution. The Apostle Paul, despite facing numerous hardships, remained resolute, stating, "But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace" (Acts 20:24). Examples in Church History Throughout church history, many ministers have demonstrated holy boldness. Martin Luther, during the Reformation, stood boldly against the established church, famously declaring at the Diet of Worms, "Here I stand, I can do no other." Similarly, John Knox, a leader of the Scottish Reformation, was known for his fearless preaching and unwavering commitment to the truth of Scripture. Application for Today In contemporary times, ministers are still called to exhibit holy boldness. As society increasingly challenges biblical truths, the need for courageous and faithful proclamation of the Gospel is paramount. Ministers must seek the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, remain committed to the truth of Scripture, and persevere in their calling, trusting that God will sustain them in the face of opposition. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 13:46Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing you put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, see, we turn to the Gentiles. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Thessalonians 2:2 Library Letter of Julius to the Eusebians at Antioch. Of the Popish Mass. How it not Only Profanes, but Annihilates the ... Instructions to Converts. Some Hymns of Great Witnesses. Caesar Fell Down. To Pammachius against John of Jerusalem. Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Latitudinarian Churchmanship. Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ... Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: Resources What does the Bible say about assertiveness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about courage? | GotQuestions.org What is toxic masculinity? | 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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