Read: Acts 4:23-31
They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. (v. 31)
It took courage in the days of the apostles to speak up for the sake of the gospel, and it’s no different today. Two primary sources of courage are laid bare in this remarkable passage for us today—the power of the Holy Spirit and the company of the faithful.
Under enormous stress from the religious authorities, Peter and the others prayed with tremendous faith, and as a group, they relied on the encouragement of one another. In response, the power of the Holy Spirit was so powerful that it shook the building. Believe it or not, that same power is available to us today.
So here are a couple of action steps for us to take immediately. First, turn to other followers of Jesus to pray together and encourage each other (vv. 23-24). It’s remarkable to me what can happen when we simply stop, look, and listen to someone in need. Second, tell others what Jesus Christ can do for them by first telling them what he has done for you (v. 31). There is enormous power in a humble but forthright testimony. If God has done something gracious and lovely for you, tell someone about it.
Jesus has promised he’ll use our voice and our vision to heal. Let’s put that promise to the test!
As you pray, ask God to fill you with holy boldness.
About the Author
Dr. Timothy Brown is the Henry Bast Professor of Preaching and President Emeritus at Western Theological Seminary where he served from 1995-2021. Tim continues to actively coach and encourage former students and pastors who seek help in their preaching life and he has become a certified public school substitute teacher so that he can continue investing in the lives of young people. He is married to Nancy and together they have three children and ten grandchildren.
