How can we share our testimony to draw others to Jesus like in John 12:18? Setting the Scene: John 12:18 “That is also why the crowd met Him, because they heard that He had performed this sign.” The sign was the raising of Lazarus (John 11). The eyewitnesses could not keep quiet; word spread, and people hurried to see Jesus for themselves. What We Learn from the Crowd’s Example • They talked about a real event they had personally witnessed. • Their excitement centered on Jesus, not themselves. • Their simple, unpolished reports drew an eager audience. Principles for Sharing Our Testimony Today • Speak of what Christ has literally done in your life—salvation, answered prayer, freedom from sin. • Keep the focus on Him; your story is a window, not the main attraction (John 3:30). • Share naturally and promptly; fresh stories carry fresh power (Mark 5:19). • Expect curiosity—God uses testimony to awaken spiritual hunger (Acts 4:20). Preparing Your Heart and Story • Spend time remembering specific “signs” Jesus has worked for you (Psalm 77:11). • Write a short “before–after–how” outline: – Before Christ: honest but concise. – How Christ met you: center on the cross and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). – Life after Christ: highlight ongoing transformation, not perfection (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Memorize one or two verses that anchor your testimony (Romans 10:9–10; Galatians 2:20). • Ask the Spirit for boldness and clarity (Acts 4:31). Practical Ways to Share • Conversational moments: coffee breaks, commutes, family gatherings—speak as naturally as you’d tell good news. • Written form: social media posts, letters, emails—short, Scripture-laced, pointing to Christ. • Hospitality: invite people into your home; let them “read” your life (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Public settings: small groups, youth meetings, baptisms—brief, Christ-centered. • Crisis moments: offer your story when others face similar struggles; relevance deepens impact (2 Corinthians 1:3–4). Staying Christ-Focused While You Speak • Use “He” more than “I.” • Quote Scripture to show that your experience aligns with God’s revealed truth. • Emphasize the gospel: sin, substitution, resurrection, call to faith. • Invite listeners to encounter Jesus themselves (John 1:45–46). Depending on the Spirit • The Holy Spirit testifies alongside us (John 15:26–27). • Pray silently as you speak; He gives words and courage (Luke 12:11–12). • Trust God for results; your role is witness, His is Savior (1 Corinthians 3:6). Living a Consistent Witness • Guard integrity; lifestyle validates words (Philippians 2:15). • Practice daily gratitude; joy is magnetic (Psalm 40:3). • Stay in fellowship with other believers for mutual sharpening (Hebrews 10:24–25). Stepping Out Today The crowd in John 12:18 simply spread news of a miracle they had seen. Do likewise: recount Christ’s unmistakable work in you, speak His word with confidence, and expect God to draw people to His Son. |
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