Receiving Courage to Speak | Guest John Cowan

John Cowan delivers a powerful message on the courage to share our faith in Jesus. Using Acts 4, he highlights how Peter and John boldly proclaimed the gospel despite persecution. The message explores why Christians often hesitate to speak about Christ, how the Holy Spirit empowers us, and how we can confidently share the gospel in a world that often pushes back. John encourages believers to pray for boldness, rely on God's strength, and start gospel conversations with those around them.

Key Themes & Scripture References:

• Overcoming Fear in Evangelism – 2 Timothy 1:7 ("God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power.")
• The Power of Speaking for Christ – Acts 4:1-31 (Peter and John boldly proclaim Jesus before the Sanhedrin.)
• God’s Call to Make Disciples – Matthew 28:19-20 (The Great Commission.)
• Trusting the Holy Spirit – Luke 12:11-12 ("The Holy Spirit will teach you what to say.")
• Jesus is the Only Way – John 14:6 ("I am the way, the truth, and the life.")

Personal Reflections & Stories:

• Illustration of Darrell Johnson: A Navy serviceman who came to Christ after reading the New Testament and later challenged his friends who never shared the gospel with him.
• The Boldness of Peter and John: How their transformation from fearful disciples to bold preachers can inspire us today.
• John’s Personal Challenge: Asking his unbelieving neighbor to have coffee and start a spiritual conversation.

Notable Quotes:

• "If we don’t share the gospel, who will?"
• "God’s truth disturbs the world, but it also saves those who receive it."
• "The Holy Spirit gives us courage, clarity, and the right words—just ask Him!"

Application & Takeaways:

1. Pray for Boldness – Ask God daily for courage to share your faith.
2. Trust the Holy Spirit – He will give you the words to say.
3. Start a Conversation – Ask simple questions like, “What do you think happens after we die?”
4. Be Prepared for Pushback – Persecution is expected but temporary.
5. Commit to 30 Days of Prayer – Pray for specific unbelievers and look for opportunities to share Jesus.

Scripture References Mentioned:

• Acts 4:1-31 – Boldness in the face of persecution.
• 2 Timothy 1:7 – No spirit of fear, but power in Christ.
• Luke 12:11-12 – The Holy Spirit provides the words.
• John 14:6 – Jesus as the only way to God.
• Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission.

Keywords & Tags:

faith, boldness, evangelism, sharing Jesus, overcoming fear, Holy Spirit, gospel conversations, Acts 4

This episode challenges believers to step out in faith and trust God to work through them. Will you accept the call?

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Well Faith shares recent sermons from Pastor Chris Teien and occasional Rockwell Church guest speakers, along with highlighting timeless replay messages from his earlier years (marked with *). These Biblical messages apply timeless truth to everyday life, offering practical guidance, encouragement, and hope for living out WELL Faith: Worshiping, Encouraging, Learning, and Loving. Get more resources ChrisTeien.com and Find sermons by topic, series, and year at WELL.faith Come worship with us Sundays at 10:15 AM at Rockwell.church 93 Midway Drive, Virginia, MN. If this message encouraged you, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and let us know what you think at [email protected]