How can we share our testimonies to inspire others, like in Acts 3:10? The Moment that Sparked Testimony Acts 3:10: “and they recognized him as the man who used to sit begging at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.” • A beggar, known to everyone, is instantly healed through the power of Jesus’ name. • The crowd’s “wonder and amazement” opens a natural door for Peter to testify (Acts 3:11-16). • Notice: the healed man’s very presence—walking, leaping, praising God—preaches louder than any prepared speech. Why Personal Testimonies Matter • They give concrete evidence of God’s living power (Psalm 66:16). • They point listeners away from us and toward Jesus (Acts 3:12-13). • They overcome fear and opposition (Revelation 12:11). Principles for Sharing Like Peter • Be visible: Don’t hide what Christ has done. Let your changed life be seen just as the healed man walked publicly. • Be Christ-centered: Peter immediately says, “Why do you stare at us? … it is Jesus’ name” (Acts 3:12,16). • Be Scriptural: Peter grounds the miracle in fulfilled prophecy (Acts 3:18). Use the Word to frame your story. • Be clear on the gospel: Move from “what happened to me” to “who Jesus is” and “why He saves.” • Be bold yet humble: Peter speaks confidently, but credits all glory to God (1 Corinthians 1:31). Practical Steps to Inspire Others Today 1. Identify the “Beautiful Gate” moments in your life • Times when Christ intervened unmistakably—deliverance, provision, transformation. 2. Write it out briefly • Beginning: my need. • Middle: how Jesus met that need. • End: the difference now. 3. Share where God provides openings • Casual conversations, social media posts, small-group gatherings, family meals. 4. Keep Jesus central • Use phrases like “Jesus healed,” “Jesus forgave,” “Jesus provided,” echoing Peter’s focus. 5. Back it with Scripture • Example pairings: – Forgiveness: Psalm 103:12. – Healing: Isaiah 53:5. – New life: 2 Corinthians 5:17. 6. Invite response, not applause • Aim for listeners to “wonder and be amazed” at Christ, not at you. Encouragement from Other Passages • Mark 5:19—Jesus to the delivered demoniac: “Go home to your own people and report to them how much the Lord has done for you.” • 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.” Living It Out • Let your daily walk authenticate your words, just as the healed man’s steps confirmed Peter’s message. • Expect that God will use your simple, honest story to stir “wonder and amazement,” leading many to the Savior who still transforms lives today. |
    |