What is the line of demarcation between appropriate boldness and bragging, true humility and self-depreciation, modesty and timidity? To most of us the answer probably does not come all at once. More probably after many trials and experiences we arrive at a correct estimate of the permissible and desirable, on the one hand, and of the hurtful and damaging, on the other. Then, perhaps, we come to a point where we say in these words from the Bible (II Tim. 1:12): "I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day."
What is timidity but a lack of humility, a lack of recognition of God's ability to do all things rightly? Jesus' words and deeds evidenced his acknowledgment of the exclusive agency of his Father, God, in all his works. His was a bold exemplification of the might of the Word. His uncompromising and undeviating stand for justice, for honesty, and for love for his fellow men cost him the support and esteem of the Pharisees, but it gained him everlasting gratitude from those healed and regenerated through his spiritual ministrations. He said (John 14:10), "The Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works." Because of his exhibitions of the nature of God, he merited the title of Jesus the Christ, or Christ Jesus.
Others after him at times displayed great boldness in their exposition of the Christian doctrine. The Apostles Peter, John, and, later, Paul, are cases in point. Of the first two we read (Acts 4:13), "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus."
