Opposition and Boldness

Key Takeaways

• The Gospel invites opposition because it confronts idolatry.

• When the Gospel is believed, the Holy Spirit provides boldness from being with Jesus.

Study Questions

• Question 1

  The sermon mentions three common idols in Nashville: status, comfort, and belonging. Which of these do you find most challenging in your own life? Are there other idols you struggle with?

• Question 2

  Pastor John says, "Where do you hesitate to obey God? What is the thing you fear losing most, because that's your functional god?" How would you answer these questions?

• Question 3

  Discuss the concept of "the expulsive power of a new affection." How have you experienced this in your own spiritual journey?

• Question 4

  The religious leaders were astonished by Peter and John's boldness, recognizing they had "been with Jesus." How can we cultivate a deeper relationship with Jesus that leads to greater boldness in our faith?

• Question 5

  How does the Gospel promise of "God with us" address our deepest fears and idols?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : Boldness in the Face of Opposition

READING :

Acts 4:1-22

DEVOTIONAL :

Peter and John's courage in the face of powerful opposition reminds us that true boldness comes from being with Jesus. When we spend time in God's presence, we're transformed. The religious leaders recognized that these "uneducated, common men" had been with Jesus. Today, reflect on your own time with God. Are you allowing his presence to shape your character and embolden you? Remember, the same Spirit that filled Peter dwells in you.

APPLICATION :

Ask God to fill you afresh with his Spirit and to grant you boldness to speak of what you've "seen and heard" about Jesus.

Day 2 : The Expulsive Power of a New Affection

READING :

Colossians 3:1-17

DEVOTIONAL :

Just as the sermon discussed replacing idols with a greater affection for Christ, Paul urges us to set our hearts on things above. Our old nature and its desires must be "put to death" and replaced with Christ-like virtues. This isn't about willpower, but about allowing our growing love for Jesus to push out lesser loves. What earthly things are you clinging to that need to be replaced by heavenly affections?

APPLICATION :

Spend time meditating on the beauty and love of Christ. Ask him to increase your affection for him so that it crowds out worldly attachments.

Day 3 : Known and Loved by God

READING :

Psalm 139:1-18

DEVOTIONAL :

In a world that often values status and recognition, this Psalm reminds us of the deep, personal knowledge and love God has for each of us. You are fully known and fully loved by the Creator of the universe. This truth is far more satisfying than any earthly fame or status. Today, bask in the reality of God's intimate knowledge of you. Let his loving gaze wash over you.

APPLICATION :

How does being fully known and fully loved by God change your perspective on seeking approval from others? Rest in the security of your identity as God's beloved child.

Day 4 : The God Who is With Us

READING :

Matthew 1:18-23; 28:16-20

DEVOTIONAL :

From "Immanuel" (God with us) at the beginning of Matthew's gospel to Jesus' promise "I am with you always" at the end, we see God's desire to be present with his people. Even in our darkest moments, we are never truly alone. Jesus experienced the agony of separation from the Father on the cross so that we would never have to.

APPLICATION :

How does the promise of God's constant presence comfort you in your current circumstances? Take time to acknowledge his presence with you right now, and carry that awareness throughout your day.

Day 5 : Living as Light in the World

READING :

Matthew 5:14-16

DEVOTIONAL :

Jesus calls us to be "the light of the world" – not hiding our faith, but letting it shine before others. This isn't about seeking attention for ourselves, but about reflecting the light of Christ so that others may see and glorify God. Your faithful witness, even in the face of opposition, can have an eternal impact. Like the Wikipedia founder in the sermon illustration, someone may be drawn to Christ through your quiet faithfulness.

APPLICATION :

Today, consider how you can let your light shine in your workplace, neighborhood, or family. Ask God for opportunities to reflect his love and truth to those around you.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.

People: I will be glad and exult in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.

Psalm 9:1-2

Confession of Faith

From The Heidelberg Catechism

Q. What is your only comfort in life and death?

A. That I am not my own, but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from all the power of the devil. He also preserves me in such a way that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head; indeed, all things must work together for my salvation. Therefore, by his Holy Spirit he also assures me of eternal life and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for him.

Confession of Sin

Almighty Father, we confess that when trials arise, we shrink back instead of standing firm. We fear rejection more than we trust your power. Like Peter and John, we know the truth, yet we remain silent when we should speak. Forgive our cowardice, our love of comfort, and our reluctance to proclaim Christ. Fill us with boldness, that we may speak and live for you without fear, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.

Luke 1:68

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Acts 4:23-31