How does Acts 10:37 encourage us to witness about Jesus' works and teachings? Context to Keep in Mind Acts 10 records Peter’s sermon to Cornelius’s household—the first full‐blown gospel presentation to Gentiles. Verse 37 sits in the middle of Peter’s retelling of Jesus’ public ministry. Acts 10:37 “You yourselves know what has happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee with the baptism that John proclaimed.” What We Learn from Peter’s One Sentence • The story of Jesus was already common knowledge—“You yourselves know…” • The facts were observable events—“what has happened throughout Judea.” • Peter ties the narrative to a definite starting point—“beginning in Galilee with the baptism that John proclaimed.” • He frames the events as history, not myth, inviting verification. How This Verse Encourages Our Witness • Familiarity breeds opportunity: since many have heard something about Jesus, we can begin where people already have partial knowledge. (cf. Acts 17:22–23) • Historical grounding: our message is anchored in real time and space, inviting honest investigation. (cf. Luke 1:1–4) • Continuity of God’s plan: John’s baptism to Jesus’ ministry shows God’s unfolding story; we can trace the same storyline today. • Example of an eyewitness: Peter speaks as one who saw and heard; we echo his testimony by pointing to Scripture’s eyewitness accounts. (cf. 2 Peter 1:16) Motivation for Boldness • Jesus promised power for witness—Acts 1:8. • We are “witnesses of these things” through the apostolic record—Luke 24:48; 1 John 1:1–3. • The gospel is “the power of God for salvation”—Romans 1:16; sharing it releases that power. Practical Ways to Share Jesus’ Works and Teachings 1. Start with what your listener already knows—news headlines at Easter or Christmas can open the door. 2. Walk through the historical timeline: John’s baptism ➜ Jesus’ miracles ➜ the cross and resurrection. 3. Use eyewitness Scripture passages: Mark 1:9–11; John 20:24–29. 4. Highlight Jesus’ teachings that touch everyday life—Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7); the Good Shepherd (John 10). 5. Tell personal stories of how Jesus’ works and words have changed you, rooting them in the biblical account. 6. Invite people to read a Gospel with you, encouraging them to verify the facts for themselves. Courage from the Early Church • Acts 4:20—“For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” • Acts 5:32—“We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit...” If first-century believers spoke boldly because the events were public, verifiable facts, we can do the same, confident that the same Holy Spirit empowers our words today. |
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