When you read the word "bold" what picture comes to your mind? Would it be that sports fanatic who paints his body, puts on a wig, and boldly declares is admiration for his favorite team? Would it be the employer who boldly asks the boss for a raise? Would it be the teenager who resists peer pressure to do the right things? Some boldness we laugh at (the sports fan) while others we admire (the teenager). I marvel at the boldness of Stephen, who became the church's first martyr. With boldness he ministered and with boldness he applied God's word to those around him--even though it wasn't popular or accepted. Most of Acts 7 is Stephen recounting the history of Israel, something his hearers would have known quite well. I'm sure everyone listening was thinking "yeah, I know all this, so what?" That was until Stephen made the application that just as their forefathers had rejected God so had they rejected God by rejecting Christ. Stephen said what needed to be said, even though it would cost him his life. His sacrifice, however, would have a great impact for the cause of Christ. I'm sure it made a lasting impression on Saul (who later became the Apostle Paul). Stephen was filled or controlled by the Holy Spirit. It is a lot easier to be bold when you are allowing the Holy Spirit to completely control your life. How bold are we today? Or maybe the better question is "are we living a Spirit-filled life?"
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.
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