Empowered Boldness: Following the Spirit Like Peter
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the theme of boldness through the life of Peter. We often admire people who possess qualities we lack, such as athletes, doctors, musicians, and single parents. Similarly, Peter had a quality that many of us feel we lack: boldness. From the moment Jesus called him, Peter displayed incredible boldness. He left everything to follow Jesus without knowing the full extent of what he was committing to. This boldness continued as he preached to thousands, performed miracles, and stood up to powerful opposition.
Peter's boldness was not due to his own strength, intelligence, or talent. It was the Holy Spirit that transformed him from a fearful disciple who denied Jesus three times to a courageous apostle who preached and performed miracles. The Holy Spirit empowered Peter to follow Jesus, tell others about Him, believe in miracles, and stand up to opposition.
As Christians, we are called to the same boldness. We may not walk on water or preach to thousands, but we are called to follow Jesus, share the gospel, believe in miracles, and stand firm in our faith. The same Holy Spirit that empowered Peter lives in us. This Spirit gives us the strength and courage to do what we cannot do on our own.
Peter's transformation shows us that boldness is not about self-confidence but about being filled with the Holy Spirit. When we rely on the Spirit, we can boldly follow Jesus, share His message, and stand up to any opposition. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live out our faith with courage and conviction.
### Key Takeaways
1. Boldness in Following Jesus: Peter's initial act of boldness was leaving everything to follow Jesus without knowing the full extent of what he was committing to. This teaches us that true boldness begins with a willingness to say "yes" to God, even when the path is unclear. Our boldness in following Jesus is not about knowing all the details but about trusting Him completely. [01:28]
2. Boldness in Proclaiming the Gospel: Peter's sermon in Acts 2, where 3,000 people were baptized, exemplifies the boldness required to proclaim the gospel. This boldness comes from the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to speak the truth about Jesus, even in the face of ridicule or danger. We are called to share the gospel with the same courage and conviction. [02:58]
3. Boldness in Believing in Miracles: Peter's boldness extended to asking Jesus for miracles, such as walking on water and healing the sick. This teaches us that we can pray for and believe in miracles, trusting that the Holy Spirit will work through us. Our faith in God's power should lead us to expect and experience His miraculous interventions. [05:40]
4. Boldness in Facing Opposition: Peter's courage in standing up to the same authorities who crucified Jesus shows us the importance of boldness in the face of opposition. The Holy Spirit gives us the strength to stand firm in our faith, even when we face threats or persecution. We are called to be unwavering in our commitment to Jesus. [07:01]
5. Transformation through the Holy Spirit: The key to Peter's boldness was the Holy Spirit. Before receiving the Spirit, Peter was fearful and denied Jesus. After being filled with the Spirit, he became a bold and courageous leader. This transformation shows us that our boldness comes from the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live out our faith with courage and conviction. [27:56]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:28] - Admiring Boldness in Others
[02:58] - Peter's Boldness in Acts 2
[04:28] - The Miracle of 3,000 Baptisms
[05:40] - Peter Walking on Water
[07:01] - Standing Up to Opposition
[08:28] - Our Call to Boldness
[10:00] - Praying for Miracles
[11:30] - Facing Opposition Today
[13:03] - Crybaby Peter vs. Bold Peter
[14:26] - Peter's Denial of Jesus
[17:17] - Peter Healing the Lame Man
[19:43] - Peter's Bold Preaching
[22:01] - Confronting Religious Authorities
[24:55] - The Holy Spirit's Empowerment
[27:56] - Holy Spirit Boldness
[29:22] - Boldness in Us
[31:01] - Living in the Spirit
[32:23] - Real Relationship with Jesus
[35:09] - Praying for Boldness
[37:47] - Experiencing the Holy Spirit
[39:14] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: Boldness Through the Life of Peter
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:14-41 (Peter's Sermon at Pentecost)
2. Matthew 14:22-33 (Peter Walking on Water)
3. Acts 4:1-22 (Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin)
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Peter's initial response when Jesus called him to follow? How does this demonstrate boldness? [[01:28]]
2. In Acts 2, what were the circumstances under which Peter delivered his sermon, and what was the outcome? [[02:58]]
3. Describe the miracle Peter asked for when he saw Jesus walking on water. How did Peter's request show his boldness? [[05:40]]
4. How did Peter and John respond to the authorities who questioned them about the healing of the lame man in Acts 4? [[07:01]]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Peter's willingness to leave everything and follow Jesus without knowing the full extent of his commitment teach us about the nature of true boldness? [[01:28]]
2. How does the transformation of Peter from a fearful disciple who denied Jesus to a bold apostle who preached to thousands illustrate the power of the Holy Spirit? [[27:56]]
3. In what ways does Peter's boldness in asking for and believing in miracles challenge our own faith and expectations of God's power? [[05:40]]
4. How can Peter's example of standing up to opposition inspire us to remain steadfast in our faith despite challenges? [[07:01]]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt called to follow Jesus in a new way but hesitated due to uncertainty. How can Peter's example encourage you to take that step of faith? [[01:28]]
2. Peter boldly proclaimed the gospel to thousands despite potential ridicule and danger. Is there someone in your life you feel called to share the gospel with? What steps can you take to do so with boldness? [[02:58]]
3. Peter asked Jesus to enable him to walk on water, demonstrating his faith in Jesus' power. Is there a "miracle" you need to pray for in your life? How can you approach God with the same boldness Peter had? [[05:40]]
4. Think about a situation where you faced opposition for your faith. How did you respond? How can Peter's example help you to stand firm in future challenges? [[07:01]]
5. The Holy Spirit transformed Peter from a fearful disciple to a bold leader. How can you invite the Holy Spirit to empower you in areas where you feel weak or fearful? [[27:56]]
6. Peter's boldness was not self-confidence but confidence in the Holy Spirit. How can you shift your reliance from your own abilities to the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in your daily life? [[27:56]]
7. Identify one specific area in your life where you need more boldness. What practical steps can you take this week to rely on the Holy Spirit for courage and strength in that area? [[27:56]]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting God Without Knowing the Path
Description: Peter's initial act of boldness was leaving everything to follow Jesus without knowing the full extent of what he was committing to. This teaches us that true boldness begins with a willingness to say "yes" to God, even when the path is unclear. Our boldness in following Jesus is not about knowing all the details but about trusting Him completely. Peter's decision to follow Jesus was a leap of faith, demonstrating his trust in Jesus' call and his willingness to leave his old life behind. This kind of boldness is essential for us as Christians, as it shows our trust in God's plan and our readiness to follow Him wherever He leads. [01:28]
Isaiah 42:16 (ESV): "And I will lead the blind in a way that they do not know, in paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I do, and I do not forsake them."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel uncertain about the future? How can you take a step of faith today, trusting that God will guide you even when the path is unclear?
Day 2: Proclaiming the Gospel with Courage
Description: Peter's sermon in Acts 2, where 3,000 people were baptized, exemplifies the boldness required to proclaim the gospel. This boldness comes from the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to speak the truth about Jesus, even in the face of ridicule or danger. We are called to share the gospel with the same courage and conviction. Peter's willingness to stand before a large crowd and boldly declare the message of Jesus shows the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in his life. This same Spirit empowers us to share the gospel with those around us, regardless of the challenges we may face. [02:58]
2 Timothy 1:7-8 (ESV): "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who needs to hear the gospel. How can you share the message of Jesus with them this week, relying on the Holy Spirit for boldness and courage?
Day 3: Believing in Miracles
Description: Peter's boldness extended to asking Jesus for miracles, such as walking on water and healing the sick. This teaches us that we can pray for and believe in miracles, trusting that the Holy Spirit will work through us. Our faith in God's power should lead us to expect and experience His miraculous interventions. Peter's faith in Jesus' ability to perform miracles was unwavering, and this faith allowed him to witness and participate in extraordinary acts of God. As believers, we are encouraged to have the same bold faith, trusting that God can and will work miracles in our lives and the lives of others. [05:40]
Mark 11:23-24 (ESV): "Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."
Reflection: What is one specific miracle you are praying for in your life or the life of someone you know? How can you strengthen your faith and trust in God's power to bring about that miracle?
Day 4: Standing Firm in the Face of Opposition
Description: Peter's courage in standing up to the same authorities who crucified Jesus shows us the importance of boldness in the face of opposition. The Holy Spirit gives us the strength to stand firm in our faith, even when we face threats or persecution. We are called to be unwavering in our commitment to Jesus. Peter's boldness in confronting the religious authorities demonstrates his deep conviction and reliance on the Holy Spirit. This same Spirit empowers us to stand firm in our faith, no matter the challenges or opposition we may encounter. [07:01]
1 Peter 3:14-15 (ESV): "But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you faced opposition for your faith. How did you respond, and how can you rely on the Holy Spirit to help you stand firm in similar situations in the future?
Day 5: Transformation Through the Holy Spirit
Description: The key to Peter's boldness was the Holy Spirit. Before receiving the Spirit, Peter was fearful and denied Jesus. After being filled with the Spirit, he became a bold and courageous leader. This transformation shows us that our boldness comes from the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live out our faith with courage and conviction. Peter's transformation from a fearful disciple to a bold apostle is a powerful testament to the work of the Holy Spirit in his life. This same Spirit is available to us, enabling us to live boldly for Christ and fulfill the calling He has placed on our lives. [27:56]
Acts 4:31 (ESV): "And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's boldness? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to transform you and empower you to live out your faith with courage and conviction?
Quotes
1. "Peter had incredible boldness. Peter was just so bold, and you see it from the very beginning, right? When Jesus calls him, Jesus walks up to him at work and just says, follow me, right? No means, no job description to go with that, and Peter's just like, yeah, I'm in. I mean, do you know how bold you have to be to say yes to God when you don't even know what he's asking you to do?" [01:28] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Peter was pretty mouthy. You know, he was, he talked a good game, but he was anything but bold. Right. If anything, he was more of a cry baby. Okay. Fast forward. Acts chapter three. This is the story of bold Peter. So I'll just read it. So Peter and John, this is Acts 3.1. Peter and John went to the temple one afternoon to take part in the three o'clock prayer service." [15:43] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "So here's the question of the day. What is Jesus calling you to do that you just don't feel bold enough? To do? Is it just like to really follow him? Or is it to tell somebody about him? Or is it to really pray for and believe in a miracle? Or is it to stand up when opposition comes? Maybe you, like, you, you feel the need, or you, you, you hear the call, or you see the opportunity, but you just don't have the boldness that people, who does?" [11:30] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So we can be bold. So we can follow. So we can tell the truth. So we can tell people about Jesus. So we can experience miracles. So we can stand up to opposition, not in our power, not in our talent, not in our strength, not in our boldness, in his. If that spirit is in us. So how many of you would say you belong to Jesus? You're saved, you're a Christian, you're a follower, a believer. So that's most. So here's good news. You already have his spirit in you." [29:22] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Peter had incredible boldness. Peter was just so bold, and you see it from the very beginning, right? When Jesus calls him, Jesus walks up to him at work and just says, follow me, right? No means, no job description to go with that, and Peter's just like, yeah, I'm in. I mean, do you know how bold you have to be to say yes to God when you don't even know what he's asking you to do? You don't know what he's going to ask you to give up. You don't know what he's going to ask you to take on, and he just, I mean, what about his business? What about his house? What about his family? It's like he just boldly said yes and started following." [01:28] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "And maybe you won't follow Jesus around Galilee on foot for three years, but you were called as a believer to follow him, and to go where he went, and to do what he did, and to experience what he experienced. You're called to take up your cross, and lay down your stuff, and make real sacrifices, and boldly say yes to following Jesus. And maybe you won't preach to 3,000 people at a time, but according to 1 Peter 2, 9, and Acts 1, 8, and Matthew, 28, and about a million other verses, we are called to tell people about Jesus." [08:28] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "And you know what? Not only, not only are you called to follow Jesus, and not only are you called to tell people about Jesus, and not only are you called to believe in and experience miracles, you might not get arrested, right? You might not be put in jail, and you might never get the opportunity to be publicly, beaten for Jesus. But there is a really good chance that somebody, sometime, somewhere is going to try to stop you from doing what Jesus has called you to do in following him, or in telling people about him, or in believing these miracles. And just like Peter, you are called to stand up to that opposition." [10:00] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "So what does that mean? If you do belong to him, you do have his spirit living in you. Just like Paul, just like Peter to enable you and empower you and embolden you to follow him and to tell people about him and to experience miracles and to stand up to everything. His Holy Spirit comes to live in you when you come to be in Christ, just, and just by relationship with him. And that's what we're talking about. And that's what we're talking about. And that's what we're talking about. And that's what happened to Peter, right?" [31:01] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "And so what I want us to do is, like, look at his stories and see if we can get an idea where he got his boldness. And maybe that'll help us to have some of the same boldness that he had. So what I'm going to do today, I'm going to tell you two stories, um, of the same Peter, but it seems like two different Peters. Um, I call them crybaby Peter and bold Peter. And then let's just see what happened in between, right? Let's see what happened between him being a crybaby and him becoming so bold and see if maybe that can happen for us too." [13:03] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "And I know, I know. Don't listen to me. Listen to Paul. Romans 8, 9 says, remember, those who do not have the spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all. So what does that mean? If you do belong to him, you do have his spirit living in you. Just like Paul, just like Peter to enable you and empower you and embolden you to follow him and to tell people about him and to experience miracles and to stand up to everything." [31:01] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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