How can Paul's approach in 2 Corinthians 12:1 guide our testimony sharing? Setting the Scene “ I must go on boasting. Though there is nothing to be gained, I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 12:1 Paul’s Reluctant Boast as a Model • Paul acknowledges, “there is nothing to be gained,” showing he is not chasing applause. • He proceeds only because the Corinthian church needs to hear how God worked. • His focus remains on “visions and revelations of the Lord,” keeping Christ central, not self. Principles for Sharing Our Testimony 1. Humble Awareness of Self • Like Paul, recognize the natural pull toward self-promotion. • 2 Corinthians 10:17: “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” 2. Christ-Centered Content • Emphasize what Jesus did, not what we accomplished. • 1 Corinthians 2:2: “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” 3. Honest Necessity • Speak when testimony will genuinely build faith in others. • Acts 26 shows Paul sharing because it served the gospel before King Agrippa. 4. Reliance on Revelation • Highlight Scripture and Spirit-led moments rather than vague feelings. • Revelation 12:11: “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” 5. Readiness to Downplay Personal Glory • Paul immediately shifts (12:2–5) to the third person to deflect attention. • 2 Corinthians 4:5: “We do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord.” Complementary Scriptures • 2 Timothy 1:8 — “Do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.” • 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be ready to give a defense… yet with gentleness and respect.” • Psalm 66:16 — “Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for my soul.” Practical Steps This Week • Write a brief testimony that highlights Christ’s work in three sentences. • Before sharing, pray for a motive check: Am I pointing to Jesus or myself? • Incorporate at least one clear Scripture when you tell your story. • Listen first; share only when the other person’s need becomes clear. Takeaway Truth Paul’s measured, Christ-honoring “boast” teaches us to share testimonies humbly, only as a vehicle to spotlight the Lord’s power and grace. |
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