FCF: Because we live in a world hostile to Christ, we are tempted to hide our faith and soften the truth.

Big Idea: In a hostile world, Jesus reveals the courage of true discipleship and the clarity of true teaching.

1. The Courage of True Discipleship (1-13)

True discipleship:

• Is not driven by popularity (3–5)


• Trusts God’s timing (6)


• Exposes evil (7; cf. John 3:19–20)


• Endures hostility (8a)
• Is cross-centered (8b)


• Follows God’s will God’s way (10)


• Rejects fame (11)


• Accepts slander (12)


• Speaks boldly about Christ (13)

2. The Character of True Teaching (14-24)

True teaching:

• Flows from intimacy with God (15–16)


• Is empowered by the Spirit (16)


• Resonates with those seeking God (17)


• Speaks with authority (18a)


• Seeks God’s glory, not personal fame (18)


• Exposes sin (19)

• Divides people (20; cf. 2 Cor 2:15–16)


• Proclaims grace through Christ alone (21–23)


• Calls for right judgment and response (24)