We continue our study in Acts this Sunday, and we’ll be starting chapter 14 looking at Acts 14:1-7.  Here we find Paul and Barnabas in Iconium preaching the gospel (as usual). Though they continue to face repeated opposition this week’s passage makes a point of letting us know that in light of this, these two apostles spoke with great boldness for the Lord.  This is a very different reality for many of us who, when there is any kind of backlash or hint of negative repercussions to sharing the good news, will often fall flat on our faces. The fact remains that in spite of the great number who reject Jesus, people who don’t know him need to hear the gospel preached. So, the questions we are faced with are these: are we truly committed to the mission? Are we passionate enough about Jesus that we will keep on when things don’t come about as “easy”?

Series: The Acts of the Apostles (Chapters 11-16)

Patrice Charade

Message: 36 – Speaking boldly for the Lord

Harvest Bible Chapel

Text: Acts 14:1-7

January 21, 2024

When I boldly share the gospel with others…

…some are drawn to the Saviour (v. 1)

Romans 1:16

Romans 10:17

Romans 10:14–15

…conflict with others is inevitable (v. 2, 4-6)

Cling to Jesus under pressure because you can count on his promises, and he will give you the stability you need.

Darryl Dash

As one sees the apparent defeat of the right, and the triumphing of might and the wrong... it seems as though Satan were getting the better of the conflict. But as one looks above, instead of around, there is plainly visible to the eye of faith a Throne... This then is our confidence: God is on the Throne.

A.W. Pink

…lines will be drawn (v. 4)

Ephesians 4:14

…and the mission must continue (v. 7)

Why do we desire the spread of the gospel throughout the world? Not out of a sinful imperialism or triumphalism, whether for ourselves or the church or even “Christianity.” Nor just because evangelism is part of our Christian obedience (though it is). Nor primarily to make other people happy (though it does). But especially because the glory of God and of His Christ is at stake. God is King, has inaugurated His saving reign through Christ, and has a right to rule in the lives of His creatures. Our ambition, then, is to seek first His kingdom, to cherish the passionate desire that His name should receive from men the honor which is due to it.

John Stott

Mark 16:15