Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Boldly preach despite opposition 

Bible Reading:   Acts 28:17-30

Key verse: V31 "He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!" — Acts 28:31

DEVOTION

The final chapter of Acts ends with almost an unresolved end to a story. There isn't a picture of a victorious Paul overcoming those opposing him. However we are presented with a faithful and persistent Paul, who though under house arrest in Rome, continues to preach the Gospel boldly. We are reminded that despite the circumstances being completely unfavorable, Paul remains faithful.
By the time Paul arrived in Rome, he had every reason to be discouraged. He had gone through a lot including shipwrecks, beatings, false accusations, and imprisonment. Now arrested and awaiting trial, he could have easily chosen silence and surrender. Instead, Paul called the local Jewish leaders and reasoned with them from the Scriptures, pointing them to Jesus as the Messiah.
Not all accepted the message. In fact, many rejected it. Yet Paul was undeterred. He quoted Isaiah to explain their hardened hearts but refused to let rejection stop the proclamation of truth. Instead, he pivoted to the Gentiles, determined that the message of salvation should be preached.
Although we may not face the same persecution Paul did, we often experience rejection, misunderstanding, or even hostility when we share our faith. It's tempting to remain quiet to avoid discomfort. But the Gospel was never meant to be hidden in silence—it’s a message that transforms lives and must be shared with boldness.
Preaching boldly means having the courage to speak when it's easier to stay silent. It means choosing faithfulness over fear, even when the results are uncertain. Like Paul, we must be willing to proclaim Christ at all times, trusting that God’s Word will accomplish what He sends it to do (Isaiah 55:11).

PRAYER

Lord, give us the courage to boldly proclaim Your Word, even when it’s unpopular or rejected. Help us not to be discouraged by opposition, but to find strength in knowing You are with us. Like Paul, may we be faithful to preach the Gospel with boldness and without hindrance. In Jesus name, Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Think of time we may have hesitated to share our faith with anyone because of fear or past rejection. Let us pray for boldness, and look for a gentle, Spirit-led opportunity to speak about Jesus this week. Let us all be encouraged by Paul’s example.


Vivin Varghese
The Mar Thoma Church Staten Island.

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