SHARING THE GOOD NEWS IN A HOSTILE WORLD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text:
"So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, 'Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.’" – Acts 4:18-20
Supporting Texts:
Matthew 10:16-22, 2 Timothy 3:12, John 15:18-20, Romans 1:16, 1 Peter 3:15-16
INTRODUCTION:
The Great Commission commands every believer to share the Gospel with the world (Matthew 28:19-20). However, in many places today, sharing the Good News is met with hostility, opposition, and even persecution. From the early church to modern times, the world has always resisted the message of Christ because it exposes sin and calls for repentance.
Peter and John faced this hostility when they boldly preached in the name of Jesus, despite being threatened by religious leaders (Acts 4:18-20). Their response was unwavering faith—they refused to be silent because they had personally encountered Jesus. Today, we also face a world that tries to silence the Gospel through legal restrictions, social pressure, and even violence.
Despite the challenges, believers must remain committed to sharing the Good News. In this study, we will examine the obstacles to evangelism, the biblical response to opposition, and the rewards of standing firm in faith.
1. WHY THE WORLD OPPOSES THE GOSPEL
The Gospel message is often resisted because it confronts sin and calls people to repentance.
a) The world hates the truth (John 15:18-19).
Jesus warned that the world would hate His followers just as it hated Him.
b) Darkness resists the light (John 3:19-20).
People reject the Gospel because it exposes their sinful ways.
c) The enemy blinds people to the truth (2 Corinthians 4:3-4).
Satan deceives the world, keeping people from seeing the light of the Gospel.
d) Human pride and rebellion (Romans 1:21-22).
Many reject God’s truth because they prefer to follow their own ways.
e) Biblical Example: The Persecution of the Early Church (Acts 8:1-4).
The apostles faced severe opposition, yet the Gospel spread even more.
2. BOLDNESS IN THE FACE OF OPPOSITION
Courage is needed to share the Good News despite threats and challenges.
a) The Holy Spirit gives boldness (Acts 1:8).
The apostles received power from the Holy Spirit to preach fearlessly.
b) Obedience to God comes before fear of man (Acts 4:19-20).
Peter and John refused to be silent despite threats.
c) Persecution is part of the Christian walk (2 Timothy 3:12).
Those who live for Christ will face challenges.
d) God promises His presence (Matthew 28:20).
Jesus assures us that He is always with us as we share the Gospel.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Boldness in Babylon (Daniel 6:10-22).
Despite the decree against prayer, Daniel remained faithful to God.
3. HOW TO SHARE THE GOOD NEWS WISELY
Jesus calls us to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16).
a) Use wisdom in approach (Colossians 4:5-6).
Speak with grace and discernment.
b) Be ready to defend your faith (1 Peter 3:15-16).
Share the Gospel with gentleness and respect.
c) Share through love and good deeds (Matthew 5:16).
Sometimes, actions speak louder than words.
d) Know your audience (Acts 17:22-23).
Paul adapted his message to different people without compromising the truth.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus with the Samaritan Woman (John 4:7-26).
Jesus engaged in conversation with wisdom, leading her to salvation.
4. THE REWARDS OF SHARING THE GOSPEL
God honours those who boldly proclaim His Word.
a) The joy of leading souls to Christ (Luke 15:7).
Heaven rejoices when one sinner repents.
b) Eternal rewards await faithful witnesses (Daniel 12:3).
Those who lead others to righteousness shine forever.
c) God protects His messengers (Psalm 91:11-12).
Divine protection follows those who serve the Lord.
d) A deeper relationship with Christ (Matthew 10:32-33).
Those who confess Christ will be acknowledged by Him before the Father.
e) Biblical Example: Paul’s Crown of Righteousness (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
Paul endured suffering but looked forward to his eternal reward.
5. OVERCOMING FEAR AND TIMIDITY
Many believers struggle with fear when sharing the Gospel, but God empowers us.
a) God has not given us a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7).
We have power, love, and a sound mind.
b) Fear of man brings a snare (Proverbs 29:25).
We must fear God more than people.
c) Pray for boldness (Acts 4:29-31).
The early church prayed for courage to speak God’s word.
d) Focus on God’s faithfulness (Hebrews 13:5-6).
He will never leave or forsake us.
e) Biblical Example: Moses Overcoming Fear (Exodus 4:10-12).
Though he was hesitant, God equipped Moses to speak.
CONCLUSION:
Sharing the Good News in a hostile world is not easy, but it is necessary. The world may reject the message, but we must remain faithful, knowing that God is with us. Just as Peter and John could not keep silent about Jesus, we must boldly proclaim His name.
Despite opposition, we are called to be wise, loving, and courageous. Our reward is both in this life and the life to come. As we share the Gospel, we must trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to give us the right words, the right timing, and the right approach.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me boldness to share Your Gospel without fear.
2. Father, open doors for the spread of the Good News in difficult places.
3. Holy Spirit, grant me wisdom to speak with love and effectiveness.
4. Lord, strengthen every persecuted believer around the world.
5. Let my life be a shining testimony of Your saving grace.
