Be Strong and Courageous – Standing Boldly in a World of Moral Uncertainty

In the sermon “Be Strong and Courageous,” Pastor Petrus Van Rensburg calls believers to unwavering strength—not only in spiritual battles, but in navigating complex ethical and moral dilemmas with clarity and conviction. Drawing inspiration from Joshua’s command to be courageous and faithful, this message applies that principle to a modern world of shifting values and moral confusion. Using powerful analogies from real-life and philosophical scenarios, Pastor Petrus challenges the church to stand firm on God’s unchanging truth, exercise moral courage, and reflect Christ in a society grappling with relativism and compromise.

Key Takeaways from “Be Strong and Courageous”

1. Moral Courage Requires Action, Not Just Reflection
   Joshua 1:9 NKJV – “Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
   • Believers are called to take bold stands in difficult moral contexts
   • Courage involves conviction—doing what is right even when it’s unpopular
   • God’s presence empowers us to confront ethical dilemmas with confidence
2. God’s Wisdom Transcends Human Philosophy
   1 Corinthians 1:25 NKJV – “Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.”
   • Human reasoning alone cannot resolve every moral problem
   • Philosophical frameworks reveal tension, but Scripture gives clarity
   • God’s wisdom produces peace, truth, and righteous outcomes
3. Justice Requires Truth, Not Just Utility
   Micah 6:8 NKJV – “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly…”
   • Consequentialism may justify wrongs for a good result, but God values integrity
   • The ends never justify the means when righteousness is compromised
   • God’s justice honors the dignity and value of every person
4. Consent and Fairness Mirror God’s Justice
   Deuteronomy 16:20 NKJV – “You shall follow what is altogether just…”
   • True justice respects free will and moral agency, as God does
   • The Kingdom way includes fairness, transparency, and shared responsibility
   • God’s justice system is relational—not utilitarian or arbitrary
5. Philosophy Raises Questions, But God’s Word Anchors Truth
   John 17:17 NKJV – “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”
   • Critical thinking is important, but without the Word, it leads to confusion
   • Scripture anchors believers in eternal prinW1g1BbNblQY&tciples amidst moral debates
   • We are called to think deeply, but also to trust God completely
6. Live Justly, Love Mercy, and Walk Humbly
   Romans 12:2 NKJV – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
   • Courage is not just physical—it’s moral and spiritual integrity
   • Living God’s justice requires humility, mercy, and Spirit-led discernment
   • Don’t conform to worldly ethics—let God shape your conscience

Now more than ever, God is calling His people to be strong and courageous—not just in defending faith, but in living out justice with boldness, love, and moral clarity. Let His Word shape your ethics, His Spirit empower your decisions, and His presence give you peace in the midst of uncertainty. Stand tall, not because you have all the answers, but because you serve the God who is truth.