Topical Encyclopedia Holy boldness is a characteristic often attributed to the saints, particularly in the context of judgment. This boldness is not a product of human arrogance or presumption but is rooted in a deep and abiding faith in God and His promises. It is a confidence that arises from a clear conscience, a life lived in accordance with God's will, and the assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ.Biblical Foundation The concept of holy boldness is grounded in Scripture, where believers are encouraged to approach God with confidence. In Hebrews 4:16 , it is written, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This verse underscores the idea that believers, through Christ, have the privilege to come before God without fear. Boldness in the Day of Judgment The assurance of holy boldness is particularly significant in the context of the final judgment. In 1 John 4:17 , the apostle John writes, "In this way, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment; for in this world we are just like Him." This passage highlights that the love of God, perfected in the believer, results in a confidence that dispels fear of judgment. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in imparting this boldness to the saints. In Acts 4:31 , after the early Christians prayed, "the place where they were assembled was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly." The indwelling of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to stand firm in their faith and to speak truth with courage, even in the face of opposition. Examples of Holy Boldness Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of individuals who exhibited holy boldness. Daniel, for instance, demonstrated unwavering confidence in God when he continued to pray despite the threat of the lion's den (Daniel 6). Similarly, the apostles, after being commanded not to speak in the name of Jesus, boldly declared, "We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29). The Source of Boldness The source of this boldness is not self-derived but is a gift from God. Proverbs 28:1 states, "The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." This boldness is a result of righteousness, which is imputed to believers through faith in Christ. It is a boldness that is anchored in the truth of God's Word and the assurance of His promises. Implications for Believers For believers, holy boldness is both a privilege and a responsibility. It calls for a life of integrity, faithfulness, and obedience to God's commands. It also involves a readiness to testify to the truth of the Gospel, regardless of the circumstances. As Paul exhorts in Ephesians 6:19-20 , "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, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should." In summary, holy boldness is a defining trait of the saints, particularly in the context of judgment. It is a confidence that stems from a relationship with God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and evidenced by a life of righteousness and faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 John 4:17Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Judgment. Thessalonica The Great Preparatives for the Saints' Rest. Of the Royal Way of the Holy Cross Our Last ChapterConcluded with the Words, "For Childhood and Youth ... An Unalterable Law The Service Common to the Festivals of the Holy virgin. The Spies Pope Anterus. Psalm IX. 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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