BOLDNESS IN THE FACE OF OPPOSITION
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 4:13-20
Key Verse:
“We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20)
Supporting Texts: Joshua 1:9; 2 Timothy 1:7; Ephesians 6:19-20; Proverbs 28:1
INTRODUCTION:
The early Church faced fierce opposition from religious and political leaders. Yet, their response was not fear, silence, or retreat; it was boldness. When Peter and John stood before the council after healing the lame man, they spoke with such courage that their accusers marvelled. Their confidence came not from human strength, but from the power of the Holy Spirit working within them.
Boldness is the mark of a Spirit-filled believer. It is not arrogance or defiance but divine confidence rooted in faith, truth, and obedience to God. When a believer is full of the Holy Spirit, fear gives way to faith, and timidity is replaced with holy courage.
Today, God still calls His people to stand boldly for truth in a world filled with compromise, intimidation, and spiritual opposition. The power that emboldened Peter and John is still available to every believer who depends on the Holy Spirit.
1. THE SOURCE OF TRUE BOLDNESS
True boldness does not come from self-confidence but from the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit.
a) Boldness is a product of the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:31)
After the believers prayed, they were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the Word of God with boldness. The Spirit empowers us to speak and act without fear.
b) Boldness grows from knowing God personally (Daniel 11:32)
Those who know their God will be strong and do exploits. The deeper your intimacy with God, the stronger your courage becomes.
c) Boldness arises from faith in God’s promises (Joshua 1:9)
God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous because His presence would go with him wherever he went. Faith in divine presence breeds courage.
d) Boldness is sustained by prayer and the Word (Ephesians 6:19-20)
The apostles constantly prayed for utterance and courage to proclaim the gospel despite persecution.
Biblical Example: Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly preached the truth even before his accusers and saw the glory of God as he was being stoned (Acts 7:54-60).
2. BOLDNESS REVEALS THE POWER OF CHRIST IN US
When believers stand fearlessly for the gospel, it testifies that Christ is alive and working through them.
a) Boldness demonstrates spiritual transformation (Acts 4:13)
The rulers recognised that Peter and John were unlearned men but noted that they had been with Jesus. True boldness reveals a changed life.
b) Boldness testifies of divine empowerment (2 Timothy 1:7)
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind. Courage is evidence of the Spirit’s power within.
c) Boldness glorifies God before unbelievers (Matthew 10:32)
When we confess Christ boldly before men, God honours us before heaven.
d) Boldness brings conviction to the opposition (Acts 4:14-16)
The miracle before them silenced the council, and they could not deny the power of God.
Biblical Example: Paul boldly preached Christ before Felix, Festus, and King Agrippa, declaring the gospel even in chains (Acts 26:1-29).
3. BOLDNESS IS TESTED IN THE MIDST OF OPPOSITION
True courage is revealed not in comfort but in confrontation. Opposition exposes the strength of our faith and the depth of our conviction.
a) Opposition is inevitable for true believers (John 15:18-20)
Jesus warned that the world would hate His followers because they are not of the world.
b) Boldness stands firm despite threats (Acts 4:18-20)
Peter and John refused to obey the command to be silent about Jesus. Their loyalty to God outweighed their fear of men.
c) Boldness grows through persecution (Philippians 1:12-14)
Paul’s imprisonment inspired others to preach the Word more courageously. God turns persecution into platforms for boldness.
d) Boldness silences fear and intimidation (Isaiah 41:10)
When God is with us, we need not fear any adversary. His presence gives us divine assurance.
Biblical Example: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood boldly before King Nebuchadnezzar and refused to bow to the golden image, even at the threat of death (Daniel 3:16-18).
4. BOLDNESS BRINGS DIVINE RESULTS
Bold faith always provokes divine intervention and supernatural results. Heaven backs those who stand fearlessly for the truth.
a) Boldness produces breakthroughs (Acts 5:19-20)
The apostles were imprisoned but an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and commanded them to continue preaching.
b) Boldness attracts God’s presence (Mark 16:20)
As the disciples went out preaching boldly, the Lord worked with them and confirmed their words with signs and wonders.
c) Boldness inspires others to stand firm (Hebrews 10:23-25)
Courageous believers encourage others to remain steadfast and unashamed of the gospel.
d) Boldness brings glory to God (Acts 4:21)
When the people saw the miracle and the boldness of the apostles, they glorified God.
Biblical Example: When Elijah boldly confronted the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, fire fell from heaven, and the people turned back to the true God (1 Kings 18:36-39).
CONCLUSION:
God is calling the Church today to return to boldness in the face of opposition. The days of silence and fear are over; it is time for Spirit-filled believers to rise and declare the truth of the gospel with power and courage. Opposition may come, but when you know who stands with you, fear loses its grip.
Like Peter and John, let us say, “We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” When we stand boldly for Christ, heaven stands with us, and no force of darkness can silence the truth.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord, for the spirit of boldness You have given to me through the Holy Spirit.
2. Lord, fill me afresh with divine courage to stand for truth and righteousness.
3. Every spirit of fear and intimidation, I cast you out in Jesus’ name.
4. Lord, make me a fearless witness of Your power and grace.
5. Strengthen me to remain firm even in the face of persecution.
6. Lord, give me utterance to speak Your Word with boldness.
7. Let my life reflect the confidence and authority of Christ.
8. Lord, grant me wisdom and boldness to confront every opposition.
9. Empower the Church in Nigeria and across the world with fearless faith.
10. Father, glorify Yourself through my life as I stand boldly for You.
