Read: Philippians 1:14-18; Acts 28:11-31
And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. (v. 14)
The Christians living in Rome and Philippi needed courage. The ruling Caesar at the time, Nero, was known for his tyranny and obsession with popularity. Just three years before Paul wrote Philippians, Nero ordered the murder of his mother because he viewed her as a threat to his rule. Then on July 18, AD 64, the great fire of Rome erupted. It burned for nine days and destroyed two-thirds of the city. It left thousands dead and hundreds of thousands homeless. The population of the city searched for answers, and rumors held Nero responsible. Consequently, Nero blamed Christians in Rome for the fire and ordered them to be arrested, thrown to dogs, crucified, and burned to death.
Despite all of this, the apostle tells us that the Christians of Rome drew courage and boldness from Paul’s response to his suffering and chains. As a result, they laid aside their fears and spoke up (and lived up) for Christ. They “spoke the word without fear.” These people, looking into the teeth of persecution, torture, and death, resolved to follow Paul’s example and dared to speak of Christ to their friends and connections.
What about us? Had we lived in Rome during this time in history would anyone have heard our voice on behalf of Christ? Does anyone hear our voice today?
As you pray, ask God to give you the courage to speak up for Christ today.
About the Author
David Walls is a pastor and writer who has served in ministry for more than 40 years.
