This is another verse that caught my attention when we did our study of faith, especially when I looked up the Greek word for boldness--parresia. The word actually refers to our speech and means things like outspoken, blunt, or frank. The immediate context, "access" means when we pray to God we needn't fear how we say things. Be frank with God, talk to Him about things that really bother you, things that you might feel uncomfortable bringing up to a High and Holy God. You can. It's okay. We can do that now that we have a High Priest who understands. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Heb 4:15-16).
But back up another couple of verses in Ephesians and notice another meaning this might have. And to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places (Eph 3:9-10). When we make known the mystery, the same mystery Paul revealed v 8, it sometimes takes a good deal of boldness. God expects his people to speak the truth "with all boldness" (Acts 28:31), frankly, and even bluntly and in an outspoken manner. We are not to cower behind mealy-mouthed sentiments that leave people wondering what in the world we are talking about. In fact, coupled with verse 12, Paul says we can do this because of the faith we have in Christ. No plain speech equals no faith, or at best, a weak one.
If you think political correctness has not invaded the church, just try putting this into action. Someone will immediately direct you to the nearest Dale Carnegie course. But in fact, smooth speech is soundly condemned in the New Testament. For they that are such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent (Rom 16:18).
While there is certainly a place for carefully choosing our words, when a sinner leaves the room without knowing he has been rebuked, what good has it done him? What love for his immortal soul has been shown? In fact, his heart has been beguiled by "smooth and fair speech". And the speaker has lacked boldness and faith.
Having therefore such a hope, we use great plainness of speech (2Cor 3:12).
Dene Ward