# Preaching with Boldness on Easter Saturday
*2016-04-02*

> Bill Young reflects on recent TV content that challenges Christian values and ties it to the biblical call for bold proclamation of the Gospel, especially in light of Acts 4:20.

## A Troubling TV Moment

I was watching the series *Empire* on Hulu and was struck by two scenes that seemed to undermine the Christian faith. In one, a pregnant woman loses her baby after a fall and then declares that there can be no God in the world. While grief can lead to doubt, true believers do not abandon their faith. My own experience with a miscarriage taught me that prayer can bring healing; after seven days of praying the Rosary, my wife’s bleeding stopped and we later welcomed a healthy son, now a 22‑year‑old.

Later in the episode, a young couple engages in a sexual encounter in a bedroom that prominently displays a crucifix. The camera then zooms to a cross, seemingly linking the scene to the Easter season. This kind of imagery, aired during prime time, raises the question: why is there no outcry from Christian leaders?

## Why the Silence?

Shows like *Empire*, *Lucifer*, *Gotham*, *Gossip Girl*, *Sleepy Hollow*, and *Hell’s Kitchen* dominate mainstream television. Their content often skirts the line between entertainment and the promotion of values contrary to Catholic teaching. Yet we rarely hear reverends or Catholic leaders publicly condemn such portrayals. Should we consider boycotting networks that consistently present anti‑Christian themes? At the very least, the faithful ought to speak out and demand accountability from media that influences families and children.

## Acts 4:20 – The Biblical Call to Boldness

In Acts 4:20 Peter and John declare, “It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard.” The Jewish authorities had ordered them not to teach in the name of Jesus, especially after Peter healed the lame man (Acts 3:1‑10). Yet the apostles responded that they must obey God and continue proclaiming the Good News of the crucified and risen Christ.

Luke records that the authorities could not find a way to punish them because the people praised God for the miracle. The scholar Jerome Cowan notes that Luke highlights a “holy boldness” granted by the Holy Spirit, enabling the apostles to withstand external pressure while proclaiming the Word of God.

## Our Responsibility Today

Just as Peter and John were compelled to preach boldly, we too must stand for truth in our culture. Whether confronting inappropriate media, defending the dignity of life, or simply sharing the Gospel in everyday conversation, we are called to a holy boldness that reflects the Spirit’s empowerment.

We should not remain silent when faced with content that distorts or attacks the faith. Speaking out is an act of love for the Church and for those who may be led astray.

## A Prayer for Boldness

Risen Savior, give me holy boldness to share the Good News of Your death and resurrection. Help me always to take a stand for the truth. Alleluia! Amen.

*When the world tries to silence the Gospel, we must answer with the boldness that the Holy Spirit gives us.*