What does it mean to not be ashamed of the gospel?

In 2 Timothy 1:8, Paul exhorts Timothy to not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of him as a prisoner for Christ. This calls believers to embrace their identity in Christ and to fully endorse the gospel message, even when faced with potential ridicule or persecution. The assurance we have through the blood of Jesus provides us with confidence that we are accepted by God, and thus, we should not shy away from sharing that truth with others. Being unashamed reflects a heart that values the glory of God above personal comfort.