Why Christians Are So Shy - Santosh Poonen - May 6, 2012
http://rlcfchurch.org/why-christians-are-so-shy River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The message addresses why Christians often exhibit shyness, contrasting this with the boldness Paul encourages in believers. The core message, drawn from 2 Timothy 1:8-12, is that because the Gospel is the powerful work of God, Christians should not be ashamed to testify about it. True belief in the Gospel's power must result in a confident willingness to share one's faith, rather than being timid or fearful of worldly rejection.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The connection between God's power and our testimonyDrawing from 2 Timothy 1:8-12, the speaker explains that because the gospel is a source of divine power, it should naturally prevent us from being ashamed of our faith.
Defining the nature of shyness in a Christian contextThe speaker examines how being 'shy' or 'circumspect' can manifest as avoiding difficult conversations about faith to avoid offending others or appearing worldly.
The danger of seeking to preserve earthly reputationUsing Mark 8:38, the speaker warns that those who prioritize their social honor and avoid controversy will face shame from Christ, whereas true disciples are willing to lose their reputation for the gospel.
Not seeking to please menPaul emphasizes that a true servant of Christ cannot prioritize pleasing people over being faithful to God's truth.Galatians 1:10
The causes of a shy ChristianShyness in the faith stems from trying to preserve one's reputation or relying on personal self-confidence instead of God.
The necessity of experiencing resurrection powerTo overcome timidity, a believer must experience the transformative power of Christ's resurrection within their inner being.2 Timothy 1:10
Avoiding the temptation to be a shy discipleThe speaker warns against being like Peter before Pentecost, who was a disciple but too afraid to openly acknowledge his faith.
The power of being a bold witnessUsing Peter's transformation in 1 Peter 3, the speaker shows how the Holy Spirit enables believers to be ready to defend their hope even under suffering.1 Peter 3:14
Identifying the spirit of timidityThe speaker argues that a spirit of fear and timidity is not from God and must be tested and rejected to live out the power of the gospel.
Rejecting a spirit of fearA spirit of timidity, anxiety, and fear does not come from God; instead, He has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind.
Seeking to preserve your own reputationMany Christians are shy because they are afraid of what others will think and seek to protect their own honor or social standing.2 Timothy 1:8
Confidence in God's eternal purposeTrue boldness comes from realizing that God called us with an eternal purpose and that the power lies in the Gospel itself, not in our own abilities or personalities.
The angel's simple message to the shepherdsReflecting on Luke 2, the speaker illustrates how an angel delivered the gospel to lowly shepherds without trying to sugarcoat the humble circumstances of Christ's birth.
The danger of a diluted gospelAttempting to present the gospel in a way that is merely attractive or 'seeker-sensitive' risks removing its power and truth.
Confidence through knowing and trusting GodTrue confidence in sharing our hope comes from a personal, deep knowledge of God and the certainty that He will protect everything we have entrusted to Him.
