This concept isn’t far-fetched in Christianity. Throughout this week we have established that all believers have received a mandate; to teach the life-giving message of the gospel. But no matter how potent it is, the message would be for nothing if it doesn’t reach those who need it.

‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭14‬ ‭
New King James Version
14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?

This scripture emphasizes that for men to be saved, they have to hear a particular message. Since God’s desire, according to 2 Timothy 2:4, is that all men be saved, then our approach towards the propagation of the gospel, discipleship and training men must be one of boldness.

In the world, there are many other voices and forces contrary to the Word of God that influence the lives and activities of men, even more so in recent years. They are unapologetic in sharing their message.

‭‭II Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭3‬
‭New King James Version ‬‬
1 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:
2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good,

It is no secret that the concepts listed here make up the centrepiece of modern-day media and pop culture making it obvious that there is an agenda by forces in opposition to influence the world with notions that are contrary to the faith and the Bible.

Not only are the effects of these media to deceive others but there are also schemes to persecute the church.

This, however, is no news to the believer.

Jesus himself said this:

John 15:20
New King James Version
20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

Our mandate was not given with the expectation of ease and comfort. Jesus said if He suffered persecution, we would suffer it also. Jesus wasn’t prophesying doom. He knew we would be waging war on the enemy, and he — the enemy— would go to any lengths to frustrate the work of God and lead men astray.

What then should be your disposition to such opposition? Let’s take an example from the early church.

Acts 4:23, 29
New King James Version
23 And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them.
29 Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word,

The apostles responded to threats and persecution by praying for boldness to preach the word more! These men did not cower or throw in the towel. They knew the urgency and importance of the mandate they had been given and they responded with a plea to God for more boldness.

This is your life!

This must be your response and approach, also. In every space you are opportune to preach, teach and disciple men, do so with boldness as well as grace, ready to be persecuted for this message that saves.

For some, persecution may be alienation from friends and family. For others, it would be missing out on certain opportunities because you refuse to conform to the world’s standards and it may even be the hurt from people’s rejection of the message.

But one thing to know and note is that you aren’t the only person who is going through these issues.

In fact, one of the most radical apostles in the Bible, Apostle Paul, faced similar challenges.

Acts 19:8-10
New King James Version
8 And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God.
9 But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus.
10 And this continued for two years so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

From this text, we can see that people blatantly rejected and despised the teachings of the Apostle Paul but we can also see that he wasn’t phased. Instead, he continued to preach with the same intensity.

Inevitably, this mandate that has been entrusted in our hands will cost you precious things, but remember that your priorities changed at salvation and you serve a purpose that is greater than you; the responsibility to make God known.

If the souls of men are at stake, then you must be willing to go above and beyond for the gospel.

How, then, can you be bold for the gospel?

1. Firstly, pray.

Acts 4:31
New King James Version
31 And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.

The early church prayed and saw the results of their prayers manifest in boldness, and the same is possible for us.

2. Study the word: Many believers shy away from teaching and making a case for the gospel because of a shallow understanding of the scriptures. With mastery comes the confidence to defend the truth to anyone, anywhere. As we learnt two devotionals ago, consistent and proper Bible study is a non-negotiable if you truly want to carry out God’s mandate. Remember that there is a standard when it comes to how God would have us divide the word of truth. (2 Tim 2:15).

3. Finally, it is essential to utilize every available space to share the gospel. This includes social media platforms, your personal circle, workplaces, schools, and beyond. If the enemy isn’t hesitant to spread his message, neither should you!

Influence also depends on numbers; the more believers boldly express their faith, the more others will be encouraged to do the same.

You have a part to play in establishing God’s kingdom on the earth and you must do so boldly. As you spend time praying for the spread of the word, pray for the boldness to execute and train men everywhere you go.

Prayer Point
Father, today I receive boldness to do your will in my time. I am not shaken by opposition. I stand firm in the truth of your word and the gospel prevails through me.