How Will You Stand Fearlessly for the Gospel?

Proverbs 9:10, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,            

and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."     

"In a word, the wise man was the God-fearing man; his wisdom lay not just in a static attitude of reverence, but rather in the conscious development of the mind toward wisdom in the context of reverence." [1]

Fearless

"Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you." Philippians 1:27–28.

The phrase "striving together" is a compound word in Greek, Sun-athlountes, combining the word from which we get our word athletic, and a prefix meaning together. Sunathlountes means to fight together side by side. Ancient soldiers fought as a densely packed phalanx linked together, eight ranks deep, that moved together against their opponents. We are spiritual soldiers and athletes, contending together as one united squad, one team, for the faith of the gospel. We do this in one Spirit. Despite our differences, we strive together as one—in Greek, literally with one soul.

There is no room for conflict in our community. Whether we are black or white, Asian or Hispanic, liberal or conservative, rich or poor, the Spirit unites us, giving us the strength to stand together. Despite our differences, we are bound by the Holy Spirit, like soldiers, we come together to advance the gospel.

When we fight together in one Spirit, nothing can stand against us. We fight fearlessly. The phrase translated as "being frightened" was used to describe spooked horses on a battlefield. Don't be a timid horse startled by a noise. Don't let the enemy intimidate you. This is a worthy life—to fight together with your brothers and sisters in Christ's global gospel mission that matters eternally.

This is a far cry from a comfortable life. It is a much higher calling. Joy and honor come from fighting in the arena, even if we get bruised, hurt, or worse.

If we want to live a worthy life, despite all difficult circumstances, including prison, we will fight together fearlessly for Christ's gospel. Like bold athletes and courageous soldiers, we will share Christ's gospel joyfully and courageously.

[1]Elwell, Walter A., and Barry J. Beitzel. "Wisdom, Wisdom Literature." Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible 1988: 2149–2150. Print.