How does John 5:15 encourage us to testify about Jesus in our lives? Setting the Scene Jesus heals a man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years (John 5:1-14). Immediately afterward, “The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.” (John 5:15). One simple sentence—yet packed with motivation for every believer. Observing the Verse • “The man went away” – He acted right away; no delay. • “and told the Jews” – He spoke to the very people who questioned him. • “that it was Jesus” – He identified the Healer by name. • “who had made him well” – He centered his report on what Jesus had done. Key Principles for Us Today • Immediate witness: Genuine encounters with Christ naturally produce immediate testimony (cf. Acts 4:20). • Courage in context: Sharing within our own circles—even skeptical ones—mirrors the man’s boldness (cf. Mark 5:19). • Christ-centered focus: The substance of our story is who Jesus is and what He has done, not our own merit (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:31). • Tangible transformation: Personal experience with Christ’s power validates our words (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:17). Practical Ways to Testify • Share recent answers to prayer the moment they happen—text, call, or post. • Reference Jesus openly when people notice changes in you (“It’s Jesus who helped me…”). • Keep a running list of specific works Christ has done in your life; draw from it in conversation. • Look for natural openings among skeptical friends; speak respectfully yet clearly, just as the healed man did. Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Psalm 107:2 – “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so…” • Luke 8:39 – “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” • Revelation 12:11 – “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” John 5:15 models spontaneous, courageous, Christ-centered witness. As Jesus works in us, we can confidently tell others, “It was Jesus who made me well.” |
    |