In what ways can we testify about Jesus to others, as John did? Verse in Focus “I myself did not know Him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that He might be revealed to Israel.” (John 1:31) What John Actually Did • Recognized his own need to discover the Messiah (“I myself did not know Him”). • Ordered his life around one clear purpose: reveal Jesus to others. • Used a visible, public ministry (baptizing) to draw attention away from himself and toward Christ. • Spoke plainly and repeatedly about who Jesus is (John 1:29, 34). • Maintained humility—never letting the spotlight settle on him (John 3:30). How We Can Testify Today Point People Directly to Jesus • Quote and explain Scripture that identifies Him (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). • Share the gospel message in simple terms: His sinless life, sacrificial death, and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Share Personal Encounter • Tell what Christ has done in your own life (Mark 5:19; 1 John 1:3). • Use everyday language, not religious jargon, so listeners grasp the reality of your experience. Live a Visible, Consistent Life • Let actions match words (Matthew 5:16). • Practice integrity, compassion, and purity to show Christ’s transforming power (Philippians 2:15). Prepare Hearts, Not Just Minds • Pray for those you’ll speak with, asking the Spirit to open eyes (2 Corinthians 4:6). • Serve practical needs first when appropriate—softened hearts hear truth more readily (Galatians 6:10). Stay Humble • Deflect praise to Christ, acknowledging dependence on Him (2 Corinthians 4:5). • Admit past or present struggles; authenticity underscores grace (1 Timothy 1:15-16). Rely on the Holy Spirit • Seek His filling daily; He empowers witness (Acts 1:8). • Trust Him for words in challenging moments (Luke 12:11-12). Use Public Platforms Wisely • Social media, workplace conversations, hospitality, community service—each can be a “Jordan River.” • Keep the focus: revealing Jesus, not building personal brand (Colossians 3:17). Key Supporting Verses • Acts 1:8 — “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses…” • 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you…” • Revelation 12:11 — “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” • Psalm 71:15 — “My mouth will declare Your righteousness, Your salvation all day long…” Living the Testimony, Day by Day 1. Start the morning in Scripture and prayer—fix your eyes on Jesus before facing people. 2. Look for natural openings: a coworker’s worry, a neighbor’s illness, a friend’s question. 3. Offer to pray aloud with someone right then; it often leads to deeper conversation. 4. Keep a verse or two memorized, ready to share. 5. Celebrate small opportunities; God can use brief words for eternal results. Encouragement to Continue John’s entire ministry boiled down to this: making Jesus known. God invites every believer into the same adventure—different settings, same message, identical purpose. If we keep Christ at the center, our testimony will echo John’s and lead many to behold “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). |
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