Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Holy boldness refers to the courage and confidence that believers exhibit in their faith, particularly in proclaiming the Gospel and living out Christian principles. This boldness is not rooted in human strength but is a divine empowerment through the Holy Spirit. It is a quality that enables Christians to speak and act fearlessly in the face of opposition, persecution, or any challenge to their faith. Biblical Foundation The concept of holy boldness is deeply rooted in Scripture, where numerous examples illustrate the importance of praying for and exercising this divine courage. The early church, as recorded in the Book of Acts, provides a vivid portrayal of believers who prayed for boldness in their mission. 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." In this passage, the apostles, facing threats from religious authorities, prayed for boldness to continue proclaiming the Gospel. Their prayer was answered as they were filled with the Holy Spirit, empowering them to speak with courage. 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." The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, requests prayer for boldness in his proclamation of the Gospel. Despite his circumstances, Paul seeks divine courage to fulfill his calling as an ambassador for Christ. Characteristics of Holy Boldness 1. Spirit-Led Courage: Holy boldness is a result of the Holy Spirit's work in a believer's life. It is not mere human bravery but a supernatural confidence that comes from God. 2. Fearlessness in Proclamation: Those with holy boldness are unashamed of the Gospel and willing to speak the truth in love, regardless of potential backlash or persecution. 3. Steadfastness in Trials: Believers who exhibit holy boldness remain firm in their faith even when facing trials, trusting in God's sovereignty and protection. 4. Prayerful Dependence: Holy boldness is often sought through prayer, as believers recognize their need for divine strength to carry out their mission. Examples in Scripture · Peter and John: In Acts 4, Peter and John demonstrate holy boldness by continuing to preach about Jesus despite being warned by the Sanhedrin to stop. Their courage is attributed to their time spent with Jesus and the filling of the Holy Spirit. · Stephen: In Acts 7, Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaims the truth to the Sanhedrin, even as he faces martyrdom. His boldness is evident in his unwavering testimony and vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God. · Paul: Throughout his missionary journeys, Paul exemplifies holy boldness by preaching the Gospel in hostile environments, enduring persecution, and remaining steadfast in his mission. Practical Application Believers today are encouraged to pray for holy boldness, especially in a world that often opposes Christian values. This boldness is essential for witnessing, standing firm in truth, and living out one's faith authentically. By seeking the Holy Spirit's empowerment, Christians can confidently engage with the world, proclaiming the Gospel with love and conviction. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 4:29And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant to your servants, that with all boldness they may speak your word, Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 6:19,20 Library The Holy Spirit Our Helper in Prayer The Preacher's Cry --Pray for Us! Sixteenth Day for the Power of the Holy Spirit in Our Sabbath ... Paul and his Requests for Prayer (Continued) Paul and his Requests for Prayer The Life that Can Pray Of the Massacre of Thessalonica; the Boldness of Bishop Ambrosius ... For those who First, when the Persecution Waxed Warm... The Intercourse of God and his Friend The Holy Spirit is not a Creature, Seeing that He is Infinite... 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 |
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