### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parrhēsiázomai**, represented by `{{G3955}}`, means to be frank in utterance or confident in spirit and demeanor. It is often translated as to "be (wax) bold" or to "(preach, speak) boldly." It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily describing a courageous and open declaration of the gospel, often in the face of opposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3955}}` is almost exclusively used in the book of Acts and the Pauline epistles to characterize the apostles' preaching. For example, after being shamefully treated at Philippi, Paul and his companions "were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel" [[1 Thessalonians 2:2]]. This boldness was a hallmark of their ministry, as when Paul went into the synagogue in Ephesus and "spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God" [[Acts 19:8]]. The source of this confidence is explicitly linked to God, as they were "speaking boldly in the Lord" [[Acts 14:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of this bold speech:
* `{{G1256}}` **dialégomai** (to discuss, dispute, reason): This word describes the method of communication that often accompanied boldness. Paul would not only speak boldly but also engage in "disputing and persuading" [[Acts 19:8]].
* `{{G4802}}` **syzētéō** (to investigate jointly, dispute): This term highlights the controversial setting in which bold speech often occurred. After Paul "spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus," he also "disputed against the Grecians" [[Acts 9:29]].
* `{{G3140}}` **martyréō** (to be a witness, testify): This word shows the divine validation that accompanied the apostles' boldness. While they were "speaking boldly in the Lord," the Lord in turn "gave testimony unto the word of his grace" with signs and wonders [[Acts 14:3]].
* `{{G3982}}` **peíthō** (to convince, persuade): This verb reveals the goal of speaking boldly, which was not merely to be frank but to persuade listeners regarding the kingdom of God [[Acts 19:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3955}}` is significant for understanding apostolic ministry.
* **A Mandated Proclamation:** Bold speech was not merely a personality trait but a divine obligation. Paul describes his role as an "ambassador in bonds," praying that he might "speak boldly, as I ought to speak" [[Ephesians 6:20]].
* **Confidence in God:** The courage to speak frankly, especially in hostile environments, is consistently sourced in God. The apostles "were bold in our God" [[1 Thessalonians 2:2]], demonstrating that their confidence was not in themselves but in the one who sent them.
* **Response to Rejection:** Boldness was often a direct response to opposition. When their message was rejected, Paul and Barnabas "waxed bold" and declared they would turn to the Gentiles [[Acts 13:46]].
* **The Mark of an Apostle:** Barnabas used Paul's history of bold preaching as evidence of his conversion, declaring to the apostles how Paul had "preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus" [[Acts 9:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3955}}` conveys much more than simple courage. It signifies a divinely-empowered frankness and confidence specific to the proclamation of the gospel. This boldness was considered a necessary duty of an apostle, enabling them to dispute, persuade, and testify in the name of Jesus, even when facing contention or persecution. It captures the unwavering demeanor of those who, filled with conviction, spoke God's word without reservation.
TRV