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Examples of Boldness in the Bible: Inspiring Acts of Courage and Conviction – Viral Believer
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Examples of Boldness in the Bible: Inspiring Acts of Courage and Conviction

The Bible is full of examples of people who exhibited boldness in their faith. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we see individuals who were unafraid to stand up for what they believed in, even in the face of persecution and opposition.

These examples of boldness serve as an inspiration to Christians today who are called to be bold in their own faith.

One of the most well-known examples of boldness in the Bible is the story of David and Goliath. As a young shepherd boy, David faced the giant Philistine warrior Goliath with nothing but a sling and five stones.

Despite the odds against him, David was confident in his faith and boldly declared, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied” (1 Samuel 17:45 NKJV).

David’s boldness in the face of danger ultimately led to his victory over Goliath and solidified his place in history as a hero of the faith.

Another example of boldness in the Bible is the story of Esther. When the Jewish people were threatened with extermination by the Persian king’s decree, Esther risked her life by approaching the king without being summoned to plead for her people’s salvation.

Esther’s boldness and courage ultimately led to the king’s reversal of the decree and the salvation of the Jewish people. These examples of boldness in the Bible serve as a reminder to Christians today that we are called to be bold in our faith and trust in God’s power to overcome any obstacle.

Examples of Boldness in the Bible

Old Testament

In the Old Testament, we see numerous examples of boldness. One of the most notable examples is Moses, who boldly approached Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

Despite facing opposition and resistance, Moses remained steadfast in his faith and trust in God, ultimately leading the Israelites to freedom.

Another example of boldness in the Old Testament is David, who fearlessly faced the giant Goliath with only a sling and a stone. David’s unwavering faith in God and his courage in the face of danger serve as a powerful example of boldness.

New Testament

In the New Testament, we see boldness exemplified in the lives of the apostles and early Christians. In Acts 4, Peter and John boldly proclaim the Gospel in the face of threats and persecution, declaring that they cannot help but speak about what they have seen and heard.

The apostle Paul is another example of boldness in the New Testament. Despite facing imprisonment, beatings, and other forms of persecution, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and continued to preach the Gospel fearlessly.

Old Testament

Moses

Moses is one of the most prominent figures in the Bible, known for his boldness and unwavering faith in God. His story is one of courage, perseverance, and trust in God’s plan.

Moses’ boldness is evident from the very beginning of his story. When God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses was hesitant and afraid. But he trusted in God’s power and stepped out in faith, boldly confronting Pharaoh and demanding that he let God’s people go.

Despite facing repeated rejection and resistance, Moses never wavered in his faith or his commitment to God’s plan. He boldly stood up to Pharaoh, performed miraculous signs and wonders, and led the Israelites through the Red Sea to safety.

Throughout his life, Moses relied on prayer and the power of God’s word to guide him. He spent long periods of time alone with God, seeking His wisdom and guidance. And he constantly turned to the Scriptures for strength and encouragement.

Moses’ boldness was not just a result of his own strength or courage. It was rooted in his deep faith in God and his unwavering belief in God’s power and goodness.

As we seek to follow in Moses’ footsteps, we too can draw on the power of prayer, the truth of Scripture, and the strength of God to face any challenge with boldness and confidence.

David

David is one of the most well-known figures in the Bible, and his story is filled with examples of boldness. From his victory over Goliath to his reign as king, David showed a fearless passion for God and a willingness to take risks.

One of the most striking examples of David’s boldness is found in 1 Samuel 17. When the Philistine giant Goliath challenged the Israelites to send out a champion to fight him, David stepped forward.

Despite being just a young shepherd boy, David was confident in God’s power and was willing to risk his life to defend his people.

He declared to Goliath, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied” (1 Samuel 17:45, NKJV). With God’s help, David was able to defeat Goliath and inspire the Israelites to victory.

David’s boldness was not limited to his military exploits. As king, he was known for his commitment to God’s truth and his willingness to take risks to follow it.

In Psalm 119:46, David declares, “I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.” He was unafraid to proclaim God’s truth to those in power, even when it put him at risk.

David’s life serves as a powerful example of what it means to live fearlessly for God. He trusted in God’s power, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, and was willing to take risks to follow His will.

As we seek to live boldly for God, we can draw inspiration from David’s example and trust in His power to guide us through any challenge.

Abraham

Abraham is often referred to as the father of faith and is known for his boldness in following God’s call. He was asked to leave his home and go to a land that God would show him. Abraham obeyed without knowing where he was going, trusting in God’s promise to bless him and make him a great nation.

Abraham’s boldness was also evident when he interceded for Sodom and Gomorrah, asking God to spare the cities if there were even ten righteous people living there. He risked offending God by questioning His judgment, but he also showed his faith in God’s mercy and justice.

Abraham’s greatest act of faith and boldness, however, was when he was asked to sacrifice his son Isaac. This was a test of Abraham’s faith and obedience, and he passed with flying colors. He was willing to risk everything, even the life of his beloved son, to obey God’s command.

Abraham’s story is a powerful example of boldness, faith, and obedience in the face of risk and uncertainty. His faith in God’s promises and his willingness to take risks and seize opportunities have inspired countless believers throughout the ages.

Some Bible verses that highlight Abraham’s boldness and faith include:

  • Genesis 12:1-4 – God’s call to Abraham to leave his home and go to a new land
  • Genesis 18:16-33 – Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah
  • Genesis 22:1-19 – Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac
  • Hebrews 11:8-12 – Abraham’s faith and obedience

New Testament

Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of boldness in the Bible. He fearlessly proclaimed the Gospel and challenged the religious authorities of His time.

He demonstrated His power over sickness, death, and even the natural elements. He boldly declared Himself to be the Son of God, even in the face of opposition and persecution.

Jesus’ confidence came from His close relationship with His Father. He spent time in prayer, seeking guidance and strength from the Holy Spirit. He knew the word of God and used it to refute the lies of the enemy. He was willing to take risks and seize opportunities to share the love of God with others.

One of the most powerful examples of Jesus’ boldness is found in John 8:58, where He declares, “Before Abraham was, I AM.” This statement not only reveals His divine nature but also asserts His authority as Lord over all creation.

Jesus’ passion for the Father’s will and His love for humanity drove Him to the cross, where He took on the sins of the world. He demonstrated the ultimate act of boldness by willingly laying down His life for us.

As Proverbs 28:1 says, “The righteous are bold as a lion.” Jesus exemplified this boldness in every aspect of His life and ministry. As believers, we can follow His example by seeking the throne of grace in prayer, studying the word of God, and stepping out in faith to take risks for the sake of the Gospel.

Paul

Acts 9:27

In Acts 9:27, Paul’s boldness is displayed when he returned to Jerusalem after his conversion. Despite the fear and mistrust of the disciples, Paul boldly proclaimed the Gospel, even though it put him at risk of persecution from the Jews.

Acts 13:46

In Acts 13:46, Paul boldly preached the Gospel to the Jews in Antioch, even though they had rejected him and the message of salvation. Paul’s confidence in the word of God was unwavering, and he continued to proclaim the truth even in the face of opposition.

Acts 14:3

In Acts 14:3, Paul boldly preached the Gospel in Iconium, despite the threats from the wicked Jews. Paul’s passion for the Gospel and his fearless attitude allowed him to take risks and seize opportunities to share the truth with others.

Acts 18:26

In Acts 18:26, Paul boldly corrected Apollos in the word of God, showing his confidence in the truth and his willingness to speak up for what is right. Paul’s boldness in this situation helped to strengthen Apollos’ ministry and further the spread of the Gospel.

Acts 19:8

In Acts 19:8, Paul boldly preached the Gospel in Ephesus, speaking boldly in the synagogue for three months. Paul’s confidence in the power of the Gospel and his reliance on the Holy Spirit allowed him to speak with authority and conviction.

Philippians 1:14

In Philippians 1:14, Paul’s boldness is evident in his imprisonment. Despite being in chains, Paul’s passion for the Gospel was undiminished, and he continued to preach the truth with boldness and confidence.

2 Corinthians 7:4

In 2 Corinthians 7:4, Paul’s boldness is displayed in his confidence in the Corinthian church. Despite their struggles and challenges, Paul encouraged them with words of strength and hope, showing his unwavering faith in the power of the Gospel.

2 Corinthians 10:1

In 2 Corinthians 10:1, Paul’s boldness is evident in his defense of the truth. Paul’s confidence in the word of God allowed him to confront false teachings and defend the Gospel with passion and conviction.

Ephesians 3:11-12

In Ephesians 3:11-12, Paul’s boldness is displayed in his confidence in Christ. Paul’s unwavering faith in the power of Christ allowed him to boldly approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that he had been made righteous through faith in Christ.

Ephesians 6:19-20

In Ephesians 6:19-20, Paul’s boldness is evident in his request for prayer. Despite being in chains, Paul’s passion for the Gospel was undiminished, and he continued to preach the truth with boldness and confidence, even in the face of persecution.

Philemon 1:8

In Philemon 1:8, Paul’s boldness is displayed in his appeal to Philemon. Paul’s confidence in the truth and his passion for reconciliation allowed him to boldly ask for Philemon’s forgiveness and restoration of Onesimus.

Overall, Paul’s boldness was rooted in his confidence in the word of God and his reliance on the Holy Spirit. Despite the risks and challenges he faced, Paul’s unwavering faith in Christ allowed him to take bold risks and seize opportunities to share the Gospel with others.

Peter

Acts 4:13

Peter was one of Jesus’ closest disciples, and he continued to be a bold witness for Christ after the resurrection.

In Acts 4:13, he and John were brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, and were questioned about their preaching. The council was amazed at their boldness, as they were uneducated and untrained men, yet they spoke with great power and authority.

Acts 4:29

Later in Acts 4, Peter and John returned to the other disciples and reported what had happened. They all prayed together, asking God to give them boldness to continue to speak the truth about Jesus, despite the threats and persecution they were facing.

Acts 4:31

Their prayer was answered, as Acts 4:31 tells us that “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.”

This supernatural boldness empowered them to continue to preach the gospel, even in the face of severe persecution.

Peter’s boldness in the book of Acts is a powerful example for Christians today. We too can ask God for boldness to speak the truth and share the gospel with those around us, even when it’s difficult or unpopular.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.