May 31, 2026
Encouraging Boldness
Sometimes, when we suffer as Christians, we take that road alone. By this, I mean we choose isolation, withdraw from others, and face our difficult situation, hoping others will not find out or be burdened by our pain. This, of course, is not a healthy approach to suffering, nor is it biblically advised (Rom. 12:15). Yet there seems to be a stoic approach to trials in our lives. If we are able to "play the man” and endure challenging times without the knowledge or assistance of others, we attain a sense of achievement and believe we have genuinely overcome obstacles without relying on another brother or sister in Christ.
Sadly, in such an approach, the whole body of Christ loses an opportunity to mature. There is a loss of opportunity to serve, a loss of opportunity to be humble, a loss of opportunity for camaraderie, and so on and so forth. Not only is there a loss of these opportunities, but there is also a loss of opportunity for the sufferer to set an example of how to conduct themselves in times of distress.
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul is suffering for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. As he writes to these brethren, he is sitting in a prison cell. Some have heard about his difficult situation and wonder why such things would happen to this servant of God. In comforting those concerned, Paul tells them that the events surrounding his imprisonment have given him an occasion to advance the gospel (Phil. 1:12). He doesn’t want them to be discouraged about his situation but desires that they see this providential working in his life as for the betterment of the Kingdom.
However, while some were troubled by Paul’s imprisonment, others grew confident in the Lord and thus became “much more bold to speak the word without fear” (Phil. 1:14). Brother Edward M. Zerr notes on this passage, “The brethren coming and going could see the chain attached to Paul's body, and could also behold his unwavering faith in Christ. Yes, they could see the chain and also hear him as he preached the Gospel to those who came near him. Such an example had the effect of strengthening their own faith and causing them to go out among the people and repeat the sweet story of the cross.”
Apostle Paul demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the gospel and exemplified its principles through his life. In doing so, he served as a role model for others, even amid his suffering. His endurance in hardship bore witness to others on how to endure as Christians, particularly when confronted with persecution for the message they espouse. The example Paul set was characterized by his steadfastness; he refused to waver in his boldness, compromise his message, or alter its fundamental truths to avoid persecution. Disciples in the first century observed Paul's valor and bravery, which encouraged and strengthened them to remain resolute in their proclamation.
When we endure suffering as Christians, let us emulate Paul by remaining accessible and supportive to our fellow believers, who can assist us in our trials. Moreover, by God’s grace, we have the opportunity to exemplify what it means to suffer with dignity and without compromising God’s truth.
- Christian Joyner
Past Articles
Encouraging Boldness 5/31/2026
The Gospel In Unfavorable Circumstances 5/24/2026
Goodness From Knowledge 5/17/2026
God's Finished Work 5/10/2026
Our Identity 4/26/2026