And he (Paul) spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Acts 9:29 

What a fervor and devotion Paul had regarding the spread of the Gospel! Throughout his life, dangerous as it would be, Paul confidently and consistently preached salvation through Jesus Christ. Sadly, such boldness today is a rarity amongst professed believers.

Many do not truly know what it is like to “risk it all” simply by declaring God’s truth. In America, criticism towards Christianity is growing, but true hostility is scarce. Of course, there are many other countries where persecution abounds. Often I wonder whether I would preach just as strongly as I do today, if I were one day faced with suffering on account of the Gospel’s message. Would I be faithful? Would you?

Notice what Hebrews 4:14-16 states, “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

The amazing reason why Paul could boldly preach is because he boldly prayed. He knew that Jesus experienced all our pains and agonies, and in the midst of it all, He overcame sin and the world. He knew that he would most assuredly “find grace to help in time of need.”

Perhaps the reason fear can easily overcome our hearts and stop our mouths from sharing the message of Christ is that we do not “come boldly to the throne of grace.” Many believers do not realize the sufficient power of grace nor have their hearts been convinced that there is a lavish supply for daily victory.

Paul said, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able … (2 Timothy 1:12) Is this your heart’s song and mind’s assurance? Have your prayers for help and guidance been just rehashed rhetoric with no deep trust that God will sustain and strengthen you? Or are you trusting and rejoicing in the fact that God through the Holy Spirit and “according as his divine power has given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue? (2 Peter 1:3)

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