BOLDNESS IN THE FACE OF PERSECUTION DURING EVANGELISM
February 28, 2025
TEXT: “But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.” “For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” (Matthew 10:19-20)
Sometimes, while carrying out God’s divine assignment of the Great Commission, we may likely encounter challenging circumstances, such as persecution and oppression. In our considered text, Jesus addressed His disciples and told them that if they were brought before the council, they should not act cowardly, as God would tell them what to say. Speaking boldly involves speaking with confidence in the face of persecution and oppression while preaching the gospel.
Evangelism requires a measure of courage and boldness, as it is a daunting task to face unbelievers for the purpose of witnessing. However, witnessing as a believer is not negotiable, as it is a divinely ordained assignment handed over to us by Jesus Christ Himself before His ascension into heaven. (Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15) Thus, regardless of the situation we find ourselves in, we are to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In summary, in the course of evangelism, we should endeavor to pray for the Spirit of God to overshadow our lives with boldness, while we must also trust in the power of God’s presence to endow us with the right words to say in the face of persecution.
SEARCHLIGHT: Persecution is inevitable during evangelism, no matter how small it may be. However, it should not hinder the spread of the gospel, as the Spirit of God is always available to empower us with courage when called upon.
PRAYER: Lord, grant me the boldness to preach Your Word, in the name of Jesus.
BIBLE READING: 1 Samuel 17-19, 1 Corinthians 6
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
