How can we "proclaim" the life revealed, as stated in 1 John 1:2? Verse Focus 1 John 1:2: “The life was revealed… we proclaim to you the eternal life…” The Heart Behind Proclamation • The apostles didn’t share an idea; they shared a Person—Jesus, the Life made visible. • Proclaiming flows from firsthand encounter (“we have seen it and testify”). • Our words invite others into the same eternal fellowship with the Father and the Son (v. 3). Why We Must Proclaim the Life • Jesus is Himself “the life” (John 14:6). If people don’t hear, they remain in death (John 5:24). • The gospel is God’s power for salvation (Romans 1:16). • Love compels us: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). Practical Ways to Proclaim the Life Revealed Speak • Clearly share the good news that Jesus died, rose, and offers eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Keep Scripture central; it is “the word of life” (Philippians 2:16). • Explain personal need and Christ’s sufficiency (Acts 17:30-31). Tell Your Story • Briefly describe life before Christ, how you met Him, and the difference He makes (Mark 5:19). • Highlight His faithfulness, not personal achievement (Psalm 115:1). Live It Out • Consistent obedience backs up spoken words (1 John 2:3-6). • Display love in action (John 13:34-35). • Radiate joy that points to the Source of life (John 10:10). Cultivate Relationships • Build genuine friendships; proclamation rides on trust (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Practice hospitality—invite people to your table and into your life (Romans 12:13). • Engage in community witness with other believers; fellowship multiplies impact (Philippians 1:27). Serve and Shine • Meet practical needs; deeds validate words (Matthew 5:16). • Stand for truth graciously in cultural conversations (Colossians 4:5-6). • Use gifts the Spirit supplies—teaching, mercy, generosity, creativity—to spotlight Christ (1 Peter 4:10-11). Depend on Prayer and the Spirit • Ask the Lord for open doors and boldness (Ephesians 6:19). • Trust the Spirit to convict and give words at the right moment (John 16:8; Luke 12:12). Scriptural Encouragements • John 1:4: “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men.” • 2 Corinthians 5:20: “We are ambassadors for Christ.” • 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give an answer…” • Philippians 2:15-16: “Shine as lights… holding fast the word of life.” The Fruit of Faithful Proclamation • Others pass from death to life (John 5:24). • Joy is shared—“that our joy may be complete” (1 John 1:4). • God is glorified as more voices praise the One who is “the eternal life” (Revelation 7:9-10). |
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