How can we apply the principle of witnessing from Acts 1:22 today? Setting the Scene “ …one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” (Acts 1:22) The apostles looked for someone who had experienced Jesus from John’s baptism through the Ascension so that the message of the risen Christ would rest on reliable, firsthand testimony. That same principle guides our witness today. Core Truths to Carry Forward • Witnessing is centered on the historical, bodily resurrection of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). • God chooses ordinary believers to testify to extraordinary truth (Acts 4:13). • The gospel spreads through Spirit-empowered speech and consistent living (Acts 1:8; Philippians 2:15-16). Witnessing Today: Key Applications • Share what you know with certainty – Christ’s death and resurrection are historical facts (Acts 2:32). – Your personal experience of salvation adds present-day credibility (John 9:25). • Keep the message resurrection-focused – Move conversations to the empty tomb; it is the linchpin of faith (Romans 10:9). – Emphasize Jesus’ victory over sin and death, offering hope that transcends circumstances (1 Peter 1:3). • Pursue firsthand familiarity with Jesus – Daily Scripture reading and obedience cultivate “lived with Him” authenticity (John 15:4-5). – Corporate worship and fellowship echo the apostolic community’s shared life (Acts 2:42). • Rely on the Holy Spirit’s power – Boldness flows from filling, not from personality (Acts 4:31). – Pray regularly for open doors and clarity of speech (Colossians 4:3-4). Practical Steps for Everyday Life • Prepare a concise resurrection testimony (2-3 minutes). • Look for natural bridges—holidays, crises, gratitude moments—to introduce Jesus’ victory. • Use Scripture in conversations; God’s Word carries its own authority (Hebrews 4:12). • Model a resurrected life: forgiveness extended, fear displaced, joy displayed (Romans 6:4). • Engage in consistent follow-up; witnessing is often a process, not a single encounter (1 Thessalonians 2:8). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Matthew 28:6-7 – The angel’s simple directive: “Come and see… go quickly and tell.” • 2 Corinthians 4:14 – Confidence that “He who raised the Lord Jesus will also raise us.” • Revelation 12:11 – Overcoming “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Living It Out Every generation needs credible witnesses of the risen Christ. As you personally know Him, proclaim Him, and live Him before a watching world, you continue the unbroken chain that began in Acts 1:22—ordinary people bearing true witness to an extraordinary Savior. |
    |