How can we apply the principle of seeking external validation in our faith? Setting the Scene “There is another who testifies about Me, and I know that His testimony about Me is valid.” Jesus is speaking to opponents who doubted His identity. He points them away from mere self-assertion to reliable, outside testimony—ultimately the Father’s own witness. That move models a healthy pattern for us: rooting confidence in verifiable, God-given evidence, not in personal feeling or popularity. What Jesus Means by External Validation • Divine Witness – John 5:36: “The works the Father has given Me to accomplish… testify about Me.” – John 5:37: “The Father who sent Me has Himself testified about Me.” • Scriptural Witness – John 5:39: “You pour over the Scriptures because you presume that by them you possess eternal life. These are the very words that testify about Me.” • Human Witness – John 5:33: “You have sent to John, and he has testified to the truth.” Jesus gathers converging witnesses—works, Word, and reputable people—showing that truth invites scrutiny rather than fleeing from it. Why External Validation Matters for Us • Safeguards us from self-deception (Jeremiah 17:9). • Confirms that our faith rests on objective reality (1 Corinthians 15:14). • Strengthens assurance when doubts arise (Hebrews 6:17-18). • Demonstrates humility, acknowledging we need God’s revealed standards and the counsel of others (Proverbs 11:14). Practical Ways to Seek Sound Testimony 1. Test every teaching by Scripture • Acts 17:11: the Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:21: “but test all things; hold fast to what is good.” 2. Look for the Father’s fingerprints in transformed lives • John 13:35: love among believers authenticates discipleship. • 2 Corinthians 3:2-3: changed hearts serve as “letters… written not with ink but with the Spirit.” 3. Welcome accountable community • Matthew 18:16 / 2 Corinthians 13:1: “every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” • Invite mature believers to speak truth and correction. 4. Weigh experiences against the full counsel of God • Psalm 119:160: “The entirety of Your word is truth.” • Personal impressions submit to Scripture’s final authority. 5. Observe God’s works in creation and providence • Psalm 19:1-4: the heavens “pour forth speech” validating the Creator. • Noticing His faithfulness in answered prayer and daily provision reinforces trust. Guardrails Against Misplaced Validation • Avoid chasing approval from those who reject God’s standards (John 5:44). • Refuse to let cultural trends override biblical testimony (Colossians 2:8). • Do not neglect personal conviction; external witness supplements, not substitutes (Romans 8:16). Encouragement for the Journey • God supplies ample evidence so our faith stands firm, not blind. • As we align with His Word and welcome credible witnesses, assurance deepens and witness becomes compelling to others. • 1 John 5:9-12: “If we accept human testimony, the testimony of God is greater… whoever has the Son has life.” |
    |