How should Jesus' confession in Luke 22:71 impact our daily witness for Him? Setting the Scene Luke 22:71: “Then they said, ‘Why do we need any more testimony? We have heard it for ourselves from His own lips.’” • The Sanhedrin has just asked, “Are You then the Son of God?” (v. 70). • Jesus replies without evasion: “You say that I am.” His words close the case against Him, yet He stands firm. Jesus’ Courageous Confession • Clear—He states His identity without ambiguity. • Costly—He knows His answer seals the path to the cross. • Consistent—His public confession matches every prior claim (John 8:58; 10:30). • Confirmed—He fulfills the command to “bear witness to the truth” (John 18:37). Key Truths for Us Today • Confession is essential to salvation and witness (Romans 10:9–10). • Silence can deny Him as surely as words can honor Him (Matthew 10:32–33). • God values faithfulness over self-preservation (Revelation 12:11). Practical Ways to Reflect His Example 1. Speak plainly about who Jesus is. – Avoid vague “spiritual” language; use Scripture’s titles: Lord, Savior, Son of God (Acts 2:36). 2. Stand firm when opposition rises. – Remember Peter and John: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). 3. Match words with integrity. – Live so that critics “may see your good deeds and glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). 4. Accept potential cost. – “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). 5. Rely on the Spirit for boldness. – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (Acts 1:8). Promises That Strengthen Our Witness • Christ intercedes for confessors (Hebrews 7:25). • The Spirit supplies words under pressure (Luke 12:11–12). • Eternal reward outweighs temporal loss (2 Corinthians 4:17). Closing Encouragement Because Jesus openly affirmed His divine identity, we can confidently affirm Him before a watching world—trusting His presence, power, and promises every step of the way. |
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