Convicção
A convicção cristã é firmeza de fé que não se abala diante da oposição. É a certeza interior que compele a proclamar a verdade com ousadia, independentemente das consequências.
Ousadia para falar
Recebereis poder e sereis minhas testemunhas. A convicção do Espírito nos equipa para proclamar com coragem e sem vergonha.
"But you will be given power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the farthest places on earth."
When they saw Peter and John’s confidence, and realized they were uneducated, ordinary men, they were very surprised. They also recognized them as Jesus' companions.
But Peter and the apostles answered, "We have to obey God rather than men.
Pray for me too so that I’ll be given the right words to say, and that I’ll be able to explain confidently the hidden truths of the good news. I’m an imprisoned ambassador for the sake of the good news, so please pray that I will speak fearlessly, as I should.
I’m certainly not ashamed about the good news, for it’s God’s power to save everyone who trusts in him—to the Jewish people first, and then to everyone else as well.
If you’re ashamed to acknowledge me and what I say among this unfaithful and sinful people, then the Son of man will be ashamed to acknowledge you when he comes with his Father’s glory with the holy angels."
So don’t be ashamed to tell others about our Lord, or be ashamed of me. Instead be ready to share in suffering for the good news as God gives you strength.
This is what you should be teaching. You have the authority to encourage and to correct as necessary. Don’t let anyone look down on you.
Firmeza e confiança
Não temas diante dos homens. A Palavra de Deus é fogo na boca do profeta e firmeza na vida do crente.
"Don’t say you’re too young," the Lord told me. "Go to everyone I send you to. Tell them everything I order you to say.
Zion, bringer of good news, go up a high mountain. Jerusalem, bringer of good news, raise your voice and shout out loud. Don’t be afraid to shout really loud! Tell the towns of Judah, "Here is your God!"
The Lord God has given me the ability to teach others, to know how to encourage those who are exhausted with a word. He wakes me up every morning; he helps me listen as a disciple.
I will make your mind like adamant, harder than flint. Don’t be afraid of what they say or discouraged by the way they look at you, even though they are a rebellious people."
I will instruct kings about your laws—I won’t be embarrassed.
Be sure to act appropriately when you’re with non-Christians, so even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see the good things you do and glorify God when he comes.
Being afraid of people traps you, but if you trust in the Lord you’re safe.
On the contrary, we have God’s approval for what we say—he’s entrusted us with sharing the good news. We don’t set out to please people, but God. He’s the one who judges our motives.
You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill can’t be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a bucket. No, it’s placed on a lamp-stand and it provides light to everyone in the house. In the same way you should let your light shine before everyone so they can see the good things you do and praise your heavenly Father.