Steve Lawson, Message #1: The Source of Boldness in Ministry

From Acts 1:8 Dr. Lawson reminded us that the source for boldness and effectiveness in ministry is the presence and filling of the Holy Spirit.

"…But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”

Observations:

• The apostles were supernaturally emboldened to proclaim the gospel (note Peter the night of the crucifixion then here at Pentecost).

• Paul boldly shared the gospel in capitol cities. He wanted to go to Rome to strike a blow for the gospel at the very center of the empire. It was Paul against the empire...and it was a mismatch!

• Two things changed Peter and the other believers, the resurrection and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Outline:

I. The Promise of the Spirit's Power: "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you..."

II. The Purpose of the Spirit's Power: "You shall be My witnesses..."

III. The Parameters of the Spirit's Power: "In Jerusalem, all Judea, Samaria, and the remotest part of the earth" (i.e. where ever His servants go...even the capitol!)

Dr. Lawson showed us that every time it was noted in the Book of Acts that believers were filled with the Holy Spirit, it resulted in the bold proclamation of the Word of God (see 4:31; 6:3; 7:51; 13:9; 13:52-14:1).

What a challenge to remember our dependence upon the work of the Holy Spirit as we seek to boldly proclaim the Word in a difficult field.

Listen to Dr. Lawson's message here.