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Bold as a Lion: Christian Courage in an Age of Cowards
“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” — Proverbs 28:1
In an age of fear, compromise, and cultural confusion, what does it mean to live with true Christian courage?
In Bold as a Lion, pastor and professor Matthew Everhard calls believers to recover the lost virtue of courage. Drawing from Scripture, theology, and the wisdom of church history, Everhard argues that we are living in an age of great cowardice—an era when many Christians have become silent in the face of moral chaos.
From COVID controversies to gender confusion and cultural hostility, believers have too often allowed the fear of man to rule their hearts. Yet the Bible calls us instead to the fear of the Lord—a holy reverence that produces conviction, not compromise.
This book unfolds as a commentary on Proverbs 28:1,
The four types of fear that shape our lives—supernatural, natural, rational, and irrational
Why cowardice cripples the church and silences truth-telling
How courage takes form in the lives of the Disciple, the Prophet, the Philosopher, the Warrior, and the Martyr
And how Jesus Christ stands as the supreme example of courage for all who follow Him
Both men and women are called to live boldly, faithfully, and fearlessly in an age of compromise. Bold as a Lion is a rallying cry to stand firm for the truth—no matter the cost.
If you desire to grow in courage, conviction, and steadfast faith, this book will challenge and inspire you to roar with the strength that comes from Christ alone.
In an age of fear, compromise, and cultural confusion, what does it mean to live with true Christian courage?
In Bold as a Lion, pastor and professor Matthew Everhard calls believers to recover the lost virtue of courage. Drawing from Scripture, theology, and the wisdom of church history, Everhard argues that we are living in an age of great cowardice—an era when many Christians have become silent in the face of moral chaos.
From COVID controversies to gender confusion and cultural hostility, believers have too often allowed the fear of man to rule their hearts. Yet the Bible calls us instead to the fear of the Lord—a holy reverence that produces conviction, not compromise.
This book unfolds as a commentary on Proverbs 28:1,
The four types of fear that shape our lives—supernatural, natural, rational, and irrational
Why cowardice cripples the church and silences truth-telling
How courage takes form in the lives of the Disciple, the Prophet, the Philosopher, the Warrior, and the Martyr
And how Jesus Christ stands as the supreme example of courage for all who follow Him
Both men and women are called to live boldly, faithfully, and fearlessly in an age of compromise. Bold as a Lion is a rallying cry to stand firm for the truth—no matter the cost.
If you desire to grow in courage, conviction, and steadfast faith, this book will challenge and inspire you to roar with the strength that comes from Christ alone.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 2, 2026
The second book that I have read from Everhard (the first being Worshiptainment). Both have been well worth it, giving helpful instruction and a good dose of challenge. Especially enjoyed the well-structured linear progression of the book's argument, which made it very easy to read and follow along with. The use of tables, figures and pictures throughout the pages also were brilliant - e.g. 'Table 7: The Media's narrative' was awesome. Would definitely recommend to any Christian man and it will be hard to find a better read in 2026!
January 12, 2026
A clear call for Christians to once again grab hold of the courage we all should have as believers. Everhard does as good job of looking at fear and then courage as the virtue which all believers should have, as well as how it functions in different ways for different circumstances.
November 26, 2025
great book! 👍👍
December 13, 2025
This book was one of the most challenging that I have read. It had challenged me to look deep into myself and examine my heart. What I found was I have been much more of a coward than a lion. But Matthew has allowed me to realize where I am failing and what steps need to be taken to change my life so that I can indeed be a Lion for Christ and his kingdom. I cannot recommend this book enough. An excellent look into our hearts as men and how to make the necessary changes. Well done Matthew
March 31, 2026
Well thought through and presented
If you want a book that is packed with Scripture to back up, quite literally every point, read this!
Now for the more detailed review...
The beginning of the book sought to tie in events of our current day and weigh them against whether Christians (or people in general) thought through what was going on behind the scenes or just followed along blindly. This sets up the rest of the book's content. Because of this, I was continually asking, "is this true of me today?"
After reading this book there is no reason for me to be afraid of anything. That was Matthew's goal and he accomplished it. It is no small matter that this book is NOT Matthew's opinion, but a plea for Christians to follow the God given commands to not have irrational and sin filled fear.
However, he is not out of touch with reality and acknowledges that there are legit fears like heights, public speaking, etc. All of these just be weighed with Scripture. Again, that is his main emphasis in the book.
The second half of the book, he gives 5 archetypes that are meant to help with fear. These 5 find their complete fulfillment in Jesus Christ (which he spends the last chapter clearly explaining). He shows be being a disciple, project, philosopher, warrior, and martyr that it is possible to live in this world without governmental and/or worldly fear.
The only fear that is acceptable is the fear of the Lord, which he mentions via the commands in scripture throughout the book.
All in all I would recommend this book to men. As Matthew states, we need more Christ centered and fearless men in this world. This book helps paint a picture of what this type of man looks like. Also, husbands and fathers should read this book as it will help you love your wife and children well as you are commanded in Ephesians 5 and 6.
However this book is helpful for women too. For the woman at college, in the thick of warped mindsets and worldviews, this book will help you navigate them all. For the mother who is raising children at home against the propaganda of the world where children are encouraged to be in charge, you need not fear as you raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
If you want a book that is packed with Scripture to back up, quite literally every point, read this!
Now for the more detailed review...
The beginning of the book sought to tie in events of our current day and weigh them against whether Christians (or people in general) thought through what was going on behind the scenes or just followed along blindly. This sets up the rest of the book's content. Because of this, I was continually asking, "is this true of me today?"
After reading this book there is no reason for me to be afraid of anything. That was Matthew's goal and he accomplished it. It is no small matter that this book is NOT Matthew's opinion, but a plea for Christians to follow the God given commands to not have irrational and sin filled fear.
However, he is not out of touch with reality and acknowledges that there are legit fears like heights, public speaking, etc. All of these just be weighed with Scripture. Again, that is his main emphasis in the book.
The second half of the book, he gives 5 archetypes that are meant to help with fear. These 5 find their complete fulfillment in Jesus Christ (which he spends the last chapter clearly explaining). He shows be being a disciple, project, philosopher, warrior, and martyr that it is possible to live in this world without governmental and/or worldly fear.
The only fear that is acceptable is the fear of the Lord, which he mentions via the commands in scripture throughout the book.
All in all I would recommend this book to men. As Matthew states, we need more Christ centered and fearless men in this world. This book helps paint a picture of what this type of man looks like. Also, husbands and fathers should read this book as it will help you love your wife and children well as you are commanded in Ephesians 5 and 6.
However this book is helpful for women too. For the woman at college, in the thick of warped mindsets and worldviews, this book will help you navigate them all. For the mother who is raising children at home against the propaganda of the world where children are encouraged to be in charge, you need not fear as you raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
July 12, 2026
This book is more than just “go be brave.” it actually strikes it the very heart of Christian identity. If we truly believe in the boldness of the apostles and the commands of the New Testament, in recent years, we have not shown it. It is cowardice on display that Everhard writes about and how to fix it. The worst example of our tendency to be cowards was put on full display during Covid, but that is just the backdrop. People are afraid, and there are many causes of cowardice, but the biggest one being the fear of man. Our fears often dismiss the power of our king. We often forget that the spiritual and physical world overlap, and that we were not given an identity of fear. We are not simple pagans where our fears can conquer us rather we are to cast away cowardice. Everhard does this through putting on display five archetypes. Five different manners where our courage can be put on display through them. He is telling us to stand for a mid fear and a dread. That we are to speak up. We are to fight against the mob and mentality. We are to do our Duty, which means knowing what is necessary and we are to not waste the life that we have been given. Why? Because we follow the king, the ultimate archetype. Basically, you cannot be a coward and be like Jesus .
July 1, 2026
Some good stuff…
…but admitting that you personally believe reported witchcraft at Salem might be real really dings your credibility.
Furthermore, you state the townsfolk “were likely” taken in by social panic & irrational fear. No kidding. How can you personally believe in actual witchcraft and then in the same breath offer the historically accurate cause? If you believe that - what else do you believe?
You’re a spiritual leader in a respected denomination - is this where you’re having the Courage to be Bold by saying they - the Salem victims - were actually possessed? Oh man…all that to give the Puritan Pastors the benefit of the doubt. Outrageous hot take. Anyway…
I do like your position on speaking out at school boards & other social issues. DEI is slowly withering thankfully. I’m, also on board with fighting back against the constant attacks on Christians.
I don’t subscribe that as a guy I’m the Leader of the house. My wife & I share that role & duties…I think most married couple do. Some roles are all mine & some are hers. It works for us.
Mixed bag - but overall a reasonable message.
…but admitting that you personally believe reported witchcraft at Salem might be real really dings your credibility.
Furthermore, you state the townsfolk “were likely” taken in by social panic & irrational fear. No kidding. How can you personally believe in actual witchcraft and then in the same breath offer the historically accurate cause? If you believe that - what else do you believe?
You’re a spiritual leader in a respected denomination - is this where you’re having the Courage to be Bold by saying they - the Salem victims - were actually possessed? Oh man…all that to give the Puritan Pastors the benefit of the doubt. Outrageous hot take. Anyway…
I do like your position on speaking out at school boards & other social issues. DEI is slowly withering thankfully. I’m, also on board with fighting back against the constant attacks on Christians.
I don’t subscribe that as a guy I’m the Leader of the house. My wife & I share that role & duties…I think most married couple do. Some roles are all mine & some are hers. It works for us.
Mixed bag - but overall a reasonable message.
February 17, 2026
The wicked flee when no one pursues,
but the righteous are bold as a lion. Proverbs 28:1
I was turned on to this book by an online book club, and it turned out to be a book I shall reread on a regular basis. It is that encouraging. I appreciated Dr. Everhard’s honesty and humility at the start, as he reviews the Christian response during COVID. Specifically agreeing to close our churches when we should have stayed open. He was not alone!
We’ve learned a great deal about ourselves over the last several years and we have some work to do.
This book is a call to action!
The Scriptures continually command us to “not be afraid” and “be strong and courageous”. This is a delightful pastoral teaching to apply Scripture and live out what we believe by faith. Highly recommend!
but the righteous are bold as a lion. Proverbs 28:1
I was turned on to this book by an online book club, and it turned out to be a book I shall reread on a regular basis. It is that encouraging. I appreciated Dr. Everhard’s honesty and humility at the start, as he reviews the Christian response during COVID. Specifically agreeing to close our churches when we should have stayed open. He was not alone!
We’ve learned a great deal about ourselves over the last several years and we have some work to do.
This book is a call to action!
The Scriptures continually command us to “not be afraid” and “be strong and courageous”. This is a delightful pastoral teaching to apply Scripture and live out what we believe by faith. Highly recommend!
February 9, 2026
I found this book incredibly helpful. It’s pastorally sensitive without backing down from plainly stating the truth. I’ve personally found it to be encouraging and also used it to put together a discussion guide for a recent men’s breakfast at the church I pastor. If there is one critique that I would offer, it is that the book is very American in its outlook, particularly the chapter on the archetype of the warrior. For my uses, that simply means that there is more work that needs to be done to contextualise it.
April 8, 2026
I found Everhard's book after listening to a few of his YT videos. I liked what I heard. He was practical and philosophical without the fluff.
I like how he wove modern day issues with the classic teachings. Learning how to be a modern day Christian man, overcoming the fear that keep us from doing God's will. The biggest fear is of man... when the only fear we should have is of not obeying God..
I recommend this book to any young man especially. It'll help you with perspective to analyze the thing you really fear and to overcome them. Because, we are afterall, overcomers.
I like how he wove modern day issues with the classic teachings. Learning how to be a modern day Christian man, overcoming the fear that keep us from doing God's will. The biggest fear is of man... when the only fear we should have is of not obeying God..
I recommend this book to any young man especially. It'll help you with perspective to analyze the thing you really fear and to overcome them. Because, we are afterall, overcomers.
January 26, 2026
This is a great book which hits the nail on the head regarding fear & cowardice today, both in the world but especially in the church. Everhard identifies many ways in which Christians, particularly church leaders have recently capitulated due to their fears. Everhard doesn’t just help expose the sinful fears, but gives us the solution. He has several helpful (and biblically commanded!) ways we are to stand courageously through the power of the Spirit.
January 27, 2026
I found this book to be very helpful in my quest for courage and boldness. As we see throughout history, the absence of courage (cowardice) lies many of the world’s problems, as is layed out in the first half of the book. And the 5 archetypes as described in the second half were well thought out and grounded in Scripture. First book I’ve read from Dr. Everhard and will likely look to reading his other work.
April 5, 2026
I'm grateful for the simple but powerful work of Dr. Everhard to use Biblical and historical teachings and men to remind us what true courage means. I was not surprised by this book's teachings, but like much of Scripture, I found myself convicted and encouraged nonetheless. I do think it is incredibly timely. I think the Matthew's assessment of the pressing need for this book is accurate. I will be recommending this for months and years to come.
May 22, 2026
A Call to Courage
During the five years there has been a shift in society. The government has encroached more in our lives. Freedoms once taken for granted have been taken away. And the right to worship God has been under attack.
This book serves as a call to action over the events of the last few years. Biblical and Christ centered, it calls all believers to put their faith in Jesus and to live boldly.
During the five years there has been a shift in society. The government has encroached more in our lives. Freedoms once taken for granted have been taken away. And the right to worship God has been under attack.
This book serves as a call to action over the events of the last few years. Biblical and Christ centered, it calls all believers to put their faith in Jesus and to live boldly.
April 6, 2026
A must read for any Christian. This book will challenge you, especially if you were one of those who has blindly followed the “traditions of men” during the plandemic. May we, the people of God, the next time when the ruling authorities are trying to scare us and threaten our lives, be bold as a lion and remember that “to live is Christ and to die is gain”!
May 20, 2026
Straight to courage
The author lays out his argument in a very easy to read and very easy to understand form. His use of biblical references are on point and even a non believer can see the connection with little effort by just referencing a Google search. A great book to jump start along with the Bible to begin your new life in Christ.
The author lays out his argument in a very easy to read and very easy to understand form. His use of biblical references are on point and even a non believer can see the connection with little effort by just referencing a Google search. A great book to jump start along with the Bible to begin your new life in Christ.
December 4, 2025
Very good book. Very thought provoking. It put courage and cowardice in perspective. Especially in its contrast of Jesus with the archetypes of courage. I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to understand Biblical courage.
February 11, 2026
I’m a stronger Christian for having read this book
My confidence, as a Christian, elevated to a higher level. I would recommend this book to anyone who needs bolstering in their courage as a faithful follower of Christ.
My confidence, as a Christian, elevated to a higher level. I would recommend this book to anyone who needs bolstering in their courage as a faithful follower of Christ.
April 17, 2026
I found this book enjoyable and helpful. As a person who struggles with anxiety, I was blessed by Pastor Matthew’s insights. At times, this volume felt a bit long in the tooth and unfocused but overall, I highly recommend it.
May 25, 2026
Bold As A Lion Review
This book is well worth the time and effort to enhance ones passion for being a true Christian. I highly recommend this work that you may grow in the strength of the Lord as a true disciple.
This book is well worth the time and effort to enhance ones passion for being a true Christian. I highly recommend this work that you may grow in the strength of the Lord as a true disciple.
December 27, 2025
I like Matthew Everhard (his Youtube channel is a must watch) and this is a recommended read.
March 31, 2026
Much needed!
Everhard provides an excellent manifesto for Christian boldness. Every Christian would do well to not only read but absorb the tenets of this book
Everhard provides an excellent manifesto for Christian boldness. Every Christian would do well to not only read but absorb the tenets of this book
June 13, 2026
Though this took me awhile to finish it is worth it. I really enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to anyone. @mattheweverhard
July 2, 2026
Great and vitally important!
May 7, 2026
I’m going to preface this by saying I am generally a political conservative - but far from identifying with the ridiculous Republican Party. I also believe in the infallibility of Scripture. Additionally, I think the PCA has it as close to right as pretty much any denomination - aside from the weird infant sprinkling. So, the author and I should be largely in agreement. But…
I don’t know what the audience for this book is. Everhard says not to follow one political ideology, but he makes it clear which one he supports. Again, no clue how someone can call himself a Christian and not see the evil and lies in government control tactics, abortion, and gender and sexual issues. There is truth in love is speaking to those things - which Dr. Everhard does throughout. But sadly, I just see too much of him reading his own opinions into Scripture - being selective to support his politics and worldview. As someone who is now a Southern Baptist, I know he’s not alone. But…
The overwhelming patriotism, celebration of war and violence in the name of defense, and particularly advising that every man of God where legal should holster a weapon and/or know karate… I’m sorry, Matthew. That’s a stretch. And while you predictably pull the “Jesus flipping tables” in your warrior archetype, you do realize that Jesus never was recorded so much as striking someone, right? And when Peter unsheathed his sword to cut off Balchus’s ear, Jesus admonished him and healed the ear.
I used to own guns, until I realized that my job in protecting my family is to protect them from spiritual and eternal death. I can’t find any Scripture that says - even though the laws of this world would call it legal - that I should off an intruder to my home who wants to physically harm me or my family or steal from me. There is nothing they can take from me, as I have true courage in being saved by Christ. Why would I send someone to hell who cannot hurt me?
I’m not throwing the baby out with the bathwater here, and there is a lot of wisdom and truth in this book. But as I’ve found with many biblical scholars and generally faithful men of Christ, Dr. Everhard has many proclivities that he would prefer to keep than to allow the Spirit room to speak. Hey, we all have blind spots. Humility and a seeker mentality are some of the best tools to grow the kingdom and participate in the infinite glory of God.
Most of this book is decent. Some of it is great. Some of it is poor and misleading. Ultimately, it has no target audience. It’s either going to convince “manly” Christians that they’re doing it all right, or it’s going to polarize “weak” Christians against the parts of his message that are true. I’ve no doubt that Dr. Everhard and I will see it all clearly in glory someday, and maybe we’ll have a laugh about it all then.
I don’t know what the audience for this book is. Everhard says not to follow one political ideology, but he makes it clear which one he supports. Again, no clue how someone can call himself a Christian and not see the evil and lies in government control tactics, abortion, and gender and sexual issues. There is truth in love is speaking to those things - which Dr. Everhard does throughout. But sadly, I just see too much of him reading his own opinions into Scripture - being selective to support his politics and worldview. As someone who is now a Southern Baptist, I know he’s not alone. But…
The overwhelming patriotism, celebration of war and violence in the name of defense, and particularly advising that every man of God where legal should holster a weapon and/or know karate… I’m sorry, Matthew. That’s a stretch. And while you predictably pull the “Jesus flipping tables” in your warrior archetype, you do realize that Jesus never was recorded so much as striking someone, right? And when Peter unsheathed his sword to cut off Balchus’s ear, Jesus admonished him and healed the ear.
I used to own guns, until I realized that my job in protecting my family is to protect them from spiritual and eternal death. I can’t find any Scripture that says - even though the laws of this world would call it legal - that I should off an intruder to my home who wants to physically harm me or my family or steal from me. There is nothing they can take from me, as I have true courage in being saved by Christ. Why would I send someone to hell who cannot hurt me?
I’m not throwing the baby out with the bathwater here, and there is a lot of wisdom and truth in this book. But as I’ve found with many biblical scholars and generally faithful men of Christ, Dr. Everhard has many proclivities that he would prefer to keep than to allow the Spirit room to speak. Hey, we all have blind spots. Humility and a seeker mentality are some of the best tools to grow the kingdom and participate in the infinite glory of God.
Most of this book is decent. Some of it is great. Some of it is poor and misleading. Ultimately, it has no target audience. It’s either going to convince “manly” Christians that they’re doing it all right, or it’s going to polarize “weak” Christians against the parts of his message that are true. I’ve no doubt that Dr. Everhard and I will see it all clearly in glory someday, and maybe we’ll have a laugh about it all then.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews