How can we apply the call to "testify" in our daily lives? The Heart of the Command “ And you also must testify, because you have been with Me from the beginning.” (John 15:27) Jesus is speaking to His disciples shortly before the cross. His words still ring true for every believer: if we know Him, we must speak of Him. Why Our Testimony Matters • It fulfills Jesus’ direct instruction (John 15:27). • It partners with the Holy Spirit’s witness (John 15:26). • It overcomes darkness: “They conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony” (Revelation 12:11). • It brings life to others: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Daily Ways to Testify 1. Live it out • Integrity at work or school proves Christ’s transforming power (Philippians 2:15). • Choose kindness and purity when the culture applauds the opposite (Matthew 5:16). 2. Speak naturally • Share what Jesus is doing today, not only what He did years ago. • Use “I” statements—“I was anxious, but He gave me peace.” Simple and personal. 3. Leverage relationships • Family meals, coffee breaks, text threads—moments most open to genuine stories. • Celebrate God’s answers to prayer publicly; invite others to rejoice. 4. Utilize gifts and platforms • Writers write, artists create, musicians sing—each medium can carry Christ’s story (1 Peter 4:10). • Social media can spotlight Scripture rather than self. 5. Ask God for openings • “Pray for us, that God may open to us a door for the word” (Colossians 4:3). • Expect Him to answer; be ready when He does (1 Peter 3:15). Overcoming Common Obstacles • Fear of rejection—remember Jesus stands with you (Matthew 28:20). • Feeling unqualified—God uses the willing, not the flawless (1 Corinthians 1:27). • Lack of results—our role is to sow; God gives the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6). Practical Starter Ideas • Memorize a one-minute version of your salvation story. • Keep a running list of answered prayers and share one each week. • Pair Scripture with a personal example when encouraging someone. • Offer to pray aloud for a co-worker who shares a struggle. • Place a Bible verse at your workspace; when asked, explain its meaning. Encouragement to Press On Paul reminded Timothy, “Do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord” (2 Timothy 1:8). The same Spirit who empowered the first disciples empowers us. As we faithfully testify, Jesus receives glory, souls encounter truth, and our own faith deepens. |