Boldness: A Call to Live with Courage and Conviction

By David Norfleet

The Book of Acts is more than just an account of the early days of the church.  As the second volume of Luke’s writings, it captures the continuation of Jesus’ work through His disciples after His resurrection and ascension.  In Acts, we witness the powerful movement of the Holy Spirit and the spreading of the gospel despite intense opposition and persecution.  It reveals a striking pattern of boldness—boldness in message, boldness in action, and boldness in the face of danger.  This pattern serves as a model for believers today, calling us to boldly live out our faith with courage and conviction.

The Purpose of Acts: History, Guidance, and Triumph

At the heart of Acts lies a clear and significant purpose.  Luke’s goal was not just to tell a story, but to lay down a historical foundation for the church, demonstrating the origins of our faith and its miraculous spread across the Roman world.  As G. Campbell Morgan aptly put it, this book shows how God’s supply to humanity meets its deepest needs.

More importantly, Acts is a guide for the church.  It provides essential principles that guided the apostles through challenges, persecutions, and triumphs.  These same principles remain applicable to the church today, offering wisdom and direction on how to navigate the complexities of living out our faith in a hostile world.  Finally, Acts highlights the triumphant growth of Christianity, showcasing how the gospel not only survived under harsh opposition but thrived, making its way from Jerusalem to the far reaches of the Roman Empire.

Acts and Boldness: A Hallmark of the Early Church

Throughout Acts, one characteristic stands out: boldness.  The book begins and ends with the bold proclamation of the gospel.  Acts 2:29 and Acts 28:31 both describe the unwavering courage with which the apostles boldly preached the message of Christ.  The Greek word parrhesia, meaning “boldness,” is used consistently throughout the book, underscoring its central role in the early church's mission.

So, what is boldness?  It is the courage to take risks, to speak the truth even when it may lead to danger or opposition.  It combines integrity—honesty and moral uprightness—with courage—the strength to stand firm despite fear or adversity.  In Acts 4, we see a vivid portrayal of boldness in action as Peter and John boldly proclaim the message of Jesus, despite being threatened by the religious authorities.  This boldness was not born of arrogance or self-confidence, but from their deep conviction in the truth of the resurrection and the power of the Holy Spirit.

What Made the Apostles Bold?

In Acts 4, we see a powerful example of this boldness.  After Peter and John healed a man who had been lame from birth, they were arrested and questioned by the Jewish authorities.  The response they gave was a testament to their boldness: they spoke openly about the resurrection of Jesus, declaring that it was through Jesus’ name that the man had been healed (Acts 4:8-12).

What made these apostles so bold?  It was their unshakable conviction in the message they carried—the message of Jesus' resurrection and the hope of salvation through Him.  They had witnessed firsthand the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and now they were empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry that message to the world.  Despite being untrained in the ways of the rabbinical schools, their boldness was evident to everyone, even the Jewish rulers, who could not deny the miraculous healing and the courage of these men.

Boldness in the Face of Opposition

The boldness of the apostles did not go unchallenged.  As we read through Acts, we see that opposition to the gospel grew increasingly intense.  The apostles were not only questioned and threatened, but they were also beaten and imprisoned.  Yet, their resolve did not waver.  When the authorities ordered them to stop speaking about Jesus, Peter and John responded, “We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20).

The early Christians faced real and immediate danger.  Today, while we may not face the same level of violent opposition, we still encounter challenges and resistance in different forms.  In many places around the world, Christians risk their lives simply by sharing the gospel.  Even in more open societies, there are cultural and social pressures that seek to silence the message of Christ.

We live in a world where speaking about Jesus can sometimes bring ridicule, rejection, or even legal consequences.  Yet, just as the apostles were bold in the face of opposition, we too must find the courage to stand firm in our faith.  In Matthew 10:16-23, Jesus prepares His followers for such opposition, reminding them that they will face persecution but assuring them of God’s presence and protection.

God Desires Boldness for His People

The boldness we see in Acts was not just a human effort.  It was the result of God’s power at work in the apostles.  After their release from prison, the believers in Jerusalem gathered to pray for boldness.  In Acts 4:29-31, they prayed, “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.”  God answered their prayer, filling them with the Holy Spirit and empowering them to speak with even greater courage.

Just as God empowered the apostles, He is still at work in His people today.  He desires boldness in His followers.  The apostle Paul, in Ephesians 6:19, asked the church to pray for him, that he might speak the gospel boldly.  Likewise, we are called to seek God’s strength to live with courage in the face of challenges.  As we trust in His power, we can boldly proclaim the gospel, just as the apostles did.

A Personal Call to Boldness

Boldness is not a trait reserved for the apostles or for those with a certain personality type.  It is a characteristic of all who follow Christ.  Proverbs 28:1 tells us, “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.”  As followers of God, we are called to be bold, standing firm in our faith and declaring the truth of the gospel.

However, this is not always easy.  There are moments when fear, doubt, or a desire to please others can cause us to shy away from speaking the truth.  Like many, I have faced moments of hesitation, moments when I was worried about what others would think or feared the consequences of standing firm in my beliefs.  But we are not called to live in fear.  Instead, we are called to trust in God, to remember that He is with us, and to speak boldly for His glory.

As we close, let us remember the words of Isaiah 50:7, “Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore, I have set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.”  With God’s help, we can face opposition, speak with boldness, and live out the truth of the gospel in every situation.

Surviving a Godless World: Lessons from the Book of Jude

By David Norfleet

In many emergency services like the military, police, and fire departments, training and drills are a constant part of the routine.  Emergency personnel are often training for situations they hope will never occur.  Yet, the true value of this preparation is revealed when the inevitable emergency strikes.  These professionals are ready to spring into action, relying on the rigorous training they have undergone.  In a similar way, the Book of Jude functions as a survival guide for Christians, preparing them to face the threats of ungodliness and false teaching that were encroaching upon their communities in the 1st century.  Jude’s letter, although addressed to a particular group of believers, is timeless and relevant for Christians today as they contend with similar challenges.

The Shift in Jude’s Message

Jude initially intended to write about the “common salvation” shared among believers (Jude 1:3).  He wanted to focus on the hope and joy of salvation, a theme that undoubtedly would have encouraged and uplifted the saints.  However, as he surveyed the spiritual landscape of his time, Jude recognized that a more urgent message was needed.  False teachers had infiltrated the church, spreading dangerous and ungodly ideas (Jude 1:4).  Jude had to shift his focus to guide the believers through a turbulent period, reminding them of their identity in Christ and equipping them to stand firm in the faith.

Surviving in a Godless World

1. Remember Who You Are

Jude’s first piece of advice to the saints is to remember their identity.  He uses a powerful triad of descriptors: called, beloved, and kept (Jude 1:1).  These three words are not just theological labels, but reminders of who the believers are and why they can stand firm in the faith.  They are called by God to salvation, beloved by God with an eternal love, and kept by His power through all trials.  These descriptors should not just be understood as designations but as life-altering truths.  The knowledge that God loves you, that He has called you, and that He is keeping you provides the strength and security needed to endure any challenge.  Jude repeats this idea throughout the letter to emphasize how vital it is for believers to remember their divine identity in the midst of perilous times.

2. Contend for the Faith

Jude urges believers to contend for the faith (Jude 1:3).  The word “contend” here comes from the Greek epagonizesthai, which carries the sense of struggling or wrestling with intensity—almost like being in an agonizing contest.  This is not a casual defense of beliefs but an active, passionate fight for the truth.  The faith Jude speaks of is not a collection of human opinions but the one true gospel that was delivered once for all.  To contend for the faith means understanding its value and its vulnerability.  Jude warns that this faith will face threats, from false teachers to external persecution.  But the emphasis on “you” in verse 3 reminds believers that, while collective action is important, each individual plays a vital role in guarding and defending the faith.

3. Do Not Be Caught Unaware

Jude emphasizes the importance of vigilance, warning believers not to be caught unaware (Jude 1:17-18).  The dangers of ungodliness, false teaching, and persecution are real and must not be ignored.  Jude calls Christians to remember the warnings given in Scripture—such as in Matthew 7:15-23 and 1 Peter 4:12—and stay alert.  There is a danger of either being overly paranoid, seeing false teachers behind every corner, or becoming so complacent that one fails to recognize the threat when it appears.  False teachers are not a thing of the past.  They still exist today in various forms: heretics, charlatans, dividers, ticklers, and speculators.  They may come with appealing messages or promises but often seek to distort the truth for their own gain.  Jude’s exhortation to not be unaware is as relevant now as it was then.

4. Look to Self

While contending for the faith and standing guard against false teachers is important, it is also vital that believers look to their own spiritual growth.  Jude cautions that in times of struggle and defense, it’s easy to become so focused on external threats that one neglects their personal transformation.  He encourages Christians to “build yourselves up in your most holy faith” (Jude 1:20).  This means continuing to grow in the knowledge and likeness of Christ, even in the midst of trials.  Spiritual growth should never stop, regardless of circumstances.

5. Look to Others

Jude also emphasizes the importance of looking out for others, particularly fellow believers who may be vulnerable to deception.  In the face of false teaching and persecution, Christians should not only be concerned with their own spiritual survival but also with the well-being of their brothers and sisters in Christ.  Jude calls for a compassionate approach, urging believers to rescue those who are wavering (Jude 1:22-23).  Some may need sympathy, others need a more aggressive intervention, and still others need cautious help.  The key is to meet people where they are, always with a heart of love and care.

Conclusion

The Book of Jude provides a timely and necessary survival guide for navigating a world filled with ungodliness and deception.  His instructions for believers to remember their identity in Christ, contend for the faith, stay vigilant, and look after both their own spiritual growth and the well-being of others are as vital today as they were in the first century.  Christians are called to live faithfully in a world that increasingly opposes the truth of the gospel.  As Jude’s letter reminds us, we can endure in this godless world because we are called, beloved, and kept by the power of God.  The challenges may be great, but the victory has already been secured through Jesus Christ.

Lessons from Barabbas

By David Norfleet

In the dramatic moments leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus, we witness a profound injustice unfold—a narrative that resonates through the ages. As Jesus stands trial before Pilate, the decision to release Barabbas, a notorious criminal, instead of the innocent Savior stands as one of history’s greatest travesties. This moment, captured in the Gospels and Acts (Matthew 27:15-26; Mark 15:6-15; Luke 23:13-25; John 18:39-40; Acts 3:14), invites us to explore crucial lessons that emerge from this painful story.

Life Isn’t Always Fair

The first lesson we encounter is the harsh reality that life is not always fair. In John 18:39-40, we see the stark contrast between justice and injustice, where the guilty are favored over the innocent. Ecclesiastes 9:11 reminds us that the race isn’t always won by the swift or the battle by the strong. Jesus faced this injustice with a heart full of humility, submitting to God’s will even when He could have called upon legions of angels for rescue (Matthew 26:53). This serves as a powerful reminder for us: in moments of hardship, we can choose to respond with grace, just as Jesus did.

Ignorance Can Lead to Wrong-Doing

Another lesson emerges when we consider the ignorance that fueled the crowd’s demands. Acts 3:13-18 reveals that many of the Jews acted out of a lack of understanding. Their religious fervor, devoid of knowledge, led them to reject the very Messiah they had long awaited. This illustrates a critical truth: when our faith lacks understanding, we risk making grave errors. They failed to recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, by allowing their own preconceptions to incorrectly interpret scriptures such as Isaiah 42:1 and 52:13-15.

The Danger of Blindly Following

The crowd’s choice to demand Barabbas’s release underscores the danger of blindly following others. Stirred up by the chief priests, they lost sight of justice (Mark 15:6-15). This scenario serves as a cautionary tale against the mob mentality that can sway us. Matthew 15:14 warns us not to follow those who lead us astray. It’s essential to engage critically with our beliefs and choices, rather than simply go along with the crowd.

The Loudest Voices Often Get Their Way

In moments of public pressure, we see how the loudest voices can dominate the narrative. Luke 23:13-25 illustrates how Pilate, faced with a tumultuous crowd, ultimately chose to appease them rather than uphold justice. This phenomenon isn’t unique to biblical times; it happens in our world today. Leaders often prioritize the demands of the loudest factions, as noted in Mark 15:15. We must remain vigilant against the sway of public opinion and be wary of the influence of the masses, as warned in Exodus 23:2 and Proverbs 1:10-15.

Hypocrites Are Blind to Their Hypocrisy

The hypocrisy of the religious leaders stands out starkly in this narrative. They accused Jesus of rebellion while failing to recognize their own similar transgressions (Luke 23:1-5). Their cry, “His blood be on us” (Matthew 27:25), reveals a troubling blindness to their own hypocrisy (Matthew 23:6-7; 15; 23). This reminds us that self-awareness is crucial; we must be willing to examine our own hearts before pointing fingers at others.

Barabbas Represents Every Sinner

Finally, Barabbas’s story resonates deeply with each of us. Like Barabbas, we are all guilty of sin (Romans 3:23). Yet, in a profound act of grace, the innocent Jesus took the place of the guilty, offering us the chance for redemption (Isaiah 53:4-6; Romans 5:6-8; Galatians 3:13). Barabbas’s release symbolizes the hope that we, too, can be set free through the sacrifice of Christ.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the fate of Barabbas, we’re left with questions. What happened to him after his release? Did he remain unchanged, or did he experience a transformation? Perhaps he became a Christian, only to later stray. Or maybe he embraced the truth of Christ and lived faithfully until the end.

Ultimately, we are all faced with choices that shape our lives. Like Barabbas, we have the opportunity to respond to grace. The question remains: how will we choose to live in light of the profound gift we’ve received? Each path we take leads us toward our own story of redemption, and it’s a journey worth considering.

Assemble

By David Norfleet

We’ve all heard it before: “Do we have to go to church?” It’s a question that many parents face, often at the end of a long week or after a gospel meeting. From a child’s perspective, the idea of skipping church for a movie or video game seems reasonable. After all, the logic might be that attending once or twice a month should be sufficient. While this viewpoint is understandable in children, it’s less acceptable when adopted by adults.

The question of why we should gather for worship is essential and deserves a thoughtful answer. Psalm 122:1 gives us a profound insight into this issue. The psalmist expresses joy and anticipation about going to the house of the Lord. The term “glad” here is more than just a feeling of contentment; it signifies a deep, rejoicing happiness.

In the Old Testament, God's people were commanded to assemble for worship on several occasions. For example, Isaiah 2:3, Jeremiah 31:6, and Micah 4:2 highlight the significance of these gatherings. These assemblies were not just ritualistic; they were vital to the spiritual life of the community. Leviticus 23:27, 35, and 37 provide further evidence of God's command for regular worship. The Israelites were called together by the sound of silver trumpets, as described in Numbers 10:2-3.

The New Testament also reinforces the importance of assembling. Early Christians frequently gathered, as seen in Acts 2:46, 5:12, 12:12, and 14:27. The instruction to not forsake assembling is explicit in Hebrews 10:25. So, why is it so critical to come together? Couldn’t we simply worship at home?

The Benefits of Assembling

• Focus and Refocus on God: When we assemble, we have an uninterrupted opportunity to focus solely on God. This time of worship helps us realign our priorities and redirect our attention to what truly matters. During the Lord’s Supper, for instance, self-examination becomes a natural part of our reflection on God (1 Corinthians 11:28).
• Spiritual Growth: Gathering for worship is crucial for our spiritual development. As we listen to God's word and participate in communal worship, we experience spiritual growth and transformation. 1 Corinthians 14:3 illustrates that worship edifies us, encouraging personal and collective growth in faith.
• Encouragement and Inspiration: Assemblies provide essential encouragement and inspiration. When we come together, we support each other through life's trials and triumphs. Ephesians 2:13-22 speaks of our unity in Christ, and the Swedish proverb, “a shared joy is a double joy,” encapsulates the joy we experience in community. God’s intention for us to be together is evident in Genesis 2:18 and Ecclesiastes 4:9-10.
• Proclaim Victory: Frequent gatherings are more than a routine; they are a means of spiritual warfare. Ignatius of Antioch, an early church father, noted that regular assembly helps defeat Satan’s schemes and promotes unity of faith. This concept is supported by James 3:13-18, which describes how wisdom and unity can counteract spiritual opposition.
• Awakening: Worship has a profound impact on our perception of reality. Life’s challenges can cloud our vision and distract us from what truly matters. Psalm 73:1-28 illustrates how worship can clear spiritual confusion and help us understand God’s ultimate purpose. The psalmist, initially troubled by the prosperity of the wicked, finds clarity and renewed focus through worship in the sanctuary.

The question remains: When the call to assemble goes forth, will you be there? Understanding the value of worship and community is crucial. Our regular gatherings are not mere duties but vital aspects of our spiritual health and growth. They offer focus, growth, encouragement, victory, and awakening. As we come together, we not only fulfill a command but also experience the rich blessings of shared faith and unity.

Hannah’s Prayer

By David Norfleet

In Luke 11:1, one of Jesus’ disciples approached Him and asked “Lord, teach us to pray….”  I can relate to that question. At times I do not know what to ask for, what the wisest course of action is, or even how to properly ask for what is troubling me.  In Luke 11 Jesus responded to the question with what is known as the model prayer (Luke 11:1-8) to answer His disciple’s question.  And I believe God has responded to our unspoken need by filling His Word with great prayers to help us learn from and shape our own prayers.

One of the great prayers in Scripture is found in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. Overwhelmed by her childlessness, provoked by Peninnah, Elkanah’s second wife, and “comforted” by an emotionally deaf husband, Hannah “was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly” (1 Samuel 1:10). But God heard Hannah’s plea, she bore a son, honored her vow, and praised God for it.

Her prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 seems to bear little resemblance to the events that evoked it.  Instead of praying, “look at what God did for me,” Hannah’s prayer is, “look at who God is!”

Hannah thinks deeply about the character and power of God. She is making realizations about God that go far beyond her situation. “My heart exults in the Lord; my strength is exalted in the Lord. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation” (v. 1). She is awed by God’s unparalleled holiness (v. 2), unsearchable wisdom (v. 3), amazing power (v. 4), and unerring justice (vv. 9-10). Her own reversal of fortunes is just one of many examples of God exalting the humble and humbling the exalted (vv. 5-8).

Do you see what Hannah’s prayer of praise is about? It is not about her, but God. The answered prayer was not just about getting what she asked for, but what the answer taught her about the God who did the answering. Hannah thought about what God did in her life and drew much bigger conclusions about what kind of God He is.

The greatest praise comes when we see that God is up to much more than just attending to our requests. I am most impressed by Hannah’s perspective. She saw the big picture. She realized that what God had done for her on a small scale, He would do for all creation one day. She realized that if God can do this for her, what can’t He do? If God cares about a lowly childless wife from the hill country of Ephraim, who can lie outside God’s sphere of care?

Let Hannah teach us how to praise God well.