Many years ago I had a deacon pray for me, “Lord, may he preach without fear or favor.” That expression made an impression on me and I have never forgotten it.
That was the spirit of Peter and John as they faced opposition to their preaching. The very ones who had called for Christ’s crucifixion were then trying to silence His men who were preaching salvation in that cross—and the Risen Lord they hated.
The Apostles boldly told them that they could not help it. They had a commission that brought the compulsion of their communication. You might as well try to stop a volcano from erupting as suppress that wondrous proclamation. Threaten the sun not to shine and it will go on shining.
This does not give the preacher a license to berate, belittle, and badger the people. He speaks the truth in love. He is motivated by love, but does not shun to speak the truth. In fact, love does not excuse sin, but exposes it, for love knows that sin causes the greatest harm and truth points to the greatest good.
Pleasing God is our ultimate goal—being faithful to Him and promoting His glory. That means that there will be some people who are displeased. Neverthless, may all God’s men preach without fear or favor!
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