In what ways can we prepare to testify about Jesus like the disciples? Stay Close to Jesus: Abide Before You Speak • John 15:27 sets the stage: “And you also must testify, because you have been with Me from the beginning.” Presence precedes proclamation. • John 15:4-5 reminds us, “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you… apart from Me you can do nothing.” Our intimacy with Christ fuels authentic testimony. • Practical steps: – Schedule unhurried daily time in the Word and prayer. – Guard your heart from distractions that crowd out communion. – Let worship—both private and corporate—keep affection for Christ warm. Rely on the Spirit’s Power, Not Your Own • Jesus promised the same help to us that He gave the first witnesses: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8). • The disciples waited in prayer (Acts 1:14) and were filled (Acts 2:4); boldness followed (Acts 4:31). • Practical steps: – Ask daily for fresh filling of the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). – Step out in obedience; power often comes in motion, not before. – Trust the Spirit to recall Scripture and give words in the moment (Luke 12:11-12). Know the Message: Let Scripture Fill Your Heart • Paul charged Timothy, “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). • “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). A mind saturated with Scripture can’t help but overflow. • Practical steps: – Memorize core gospel verses: John 3:16; Romans 3:23; 6:23; 5:8; 10:9-10. – Study key passages on Christ’s identity (John 1:1-18; Colossians 1:15-20). – Keep a simple gospel outline ready—Creation, Fall, Redemption, Response. Live the Message: Integrity That Confirms the Words • Peter and John’s accusers “recognized that they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). Holiness made their words believable. • Philippians 2:15 urges us to “shine as lights in the world.” • Practical steps: – Examine conduct, speech, and online presence for consistency with Christ. – Confess and forsake sin quickly so the enemy can’t discredit your witness. – Serve others quietly; actions often open ears to words. Love Like Jesus: The Compelling Proof • John 15:12—“This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” • Genuine love validates the gospel (John 13:34-35). • Practical steps: – Practice intentional kindness to neighbors, coworkers, classmates. – Listen well; people sense love when they feel heard. – Forgive quickly, demonstrating the grace you proclaim. Be Ready in Every Situation: Prepared, Alert, Willing • 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, yet with gentleness and respect.” • Practical steps: – Keep a short, clear personal testimony (before/meeting/after) ready. – Carry a pocket New Testament or keep a Bible app bookmarked. – Pray for daily divine appointments and recognize them when they come. Speak From Experience: Your Story Intertwined with His • The disciples testified to what they had “seen and heard” (1 John 1:3). So can we. • Revelation 12:11 celebrates believers who “overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” • Practical steps: – Reflect regularly on answered prayers and fresh mercies; jot them down. – Share specific ways Jesus is changing you right now, not just years ago. – Keep the spotlight on Christ—He is the hero, you are the witness. Staying near Jesus, depending on His Spirit, knowing and living His Word, loving tangibly, and being ready with personal and scriptural testimony—these practices equip us to testify faithfully, just as the first disciples did. |
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