Life Lessons From 25 New Testament CharactersSýnishorn

From Fear to Bold Faith

Fear paralyzes. Faith in God makes us bold. Joseph of Arimathea knew all about this. He was surrounded by people who hated Jesus Christ. He was a part of the Religious Leaders during the time Jesus lived. Jesus Christ was seen as a threat to their religious order, but, ironically, Joseph was drawn to faith in Jesus. This created a real-life crisis for him. Following Jesus meant being different and risking his reputation, his status as a religious leader, and his place in society. Becoming a follower of Christ came with a cost and, at first, Joseph hid his faith. After Jesus died though, even if it seemed “too late”, he risked much, taking a bold step of faith by asking Pilate "boldly for Jesus’ body”. Remember, the Religious Leaders killed Jesus, and now, Joseph was unashamedly caring for the same man they wanted dead. God can take our “hidden, and ashamed" faith, the fear we all encounter for being different for Jesus, and grow us into bold followers that are unashamed of Him. Joseph's small but bold step shows us the transformation God can make in all of us - turning us from fearful to boldly faithful!

THINK and PRAY:

Are you paralyzed by fear?

Fear of what others may think or do to us because we follow Jesus Christ can be intimidating -especially when we first start following Jesus. The risk is real and should be expected. Following Christ comes with a cost, but the rewards are many. Joseph was transformed from a timid, “hidden Christian” to a bold representative of Christ. God can do this in all of us. There had to be a moment after Jesus’ death where Joseph was convicted and said, “You know what, I loved Jesus Christ, his death was wrong, and I will not be ashamed anymore!“ His faith was put into action and fear was defeated. He understood being bold for Christ was worth far more than being ashamed of his God, who he believed in. This is natural for all Believers in Christ. But God calls us to be unashamed and to ask Him for boldness to represent His reality to our world — no matter the cost! Fear has a way of paralyzing our faith, but God transforms those who are willing to live out their faith both in private and public. What are some fears that paralyze you? How has God caused you to become bolder in your faith in front of other people?