Connect 1 Corinthians 1:6 with another verse about the testimony of Christ. Opening Thought The church in Corinth had plenty of problems, yet Paul could still celebrate a powerful reality among them: the gospel message—“our testimony about Christ”—had taken root and proven genuine in their lives. That same “testimony” shows up all over Scripture, linking believers of every age into one continuous witness. Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 1:6 “Because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you.” Complementary Verse: 1 John 5:11 – 12 “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.” What “Testimony” Means • A solemn, factual declaration—more courtroom language than casual chat. • Grounded in concrete historical events: Jesus’ incarnation, sinless life, atoning death, bodily resurrection, and ascension. • Carried by human witnesses but authored by God Himself (John 15:26–27). How the Two Passages Interlock • 1 Corinthians 1:6 highlights evidence: the Corinthians’ transformed lives “confirmed” the apostolic proclamation. • 1 John 5:11–12 defines the content: eternal life is inseparable from the person of Jesus. • Together they form a chain: – Apostles testify to Christ. – Hearers receive and are changed. – Changed lives become fresh proof that the testimony is true. Additional Supporting Snapshots • Acts 4:33—“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all.” • Revelation 19:10—“For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” • 2 Timothy 1:8—“So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord…” Practical Takeaways • Authentic faith always carries evidence—changed speech, priorities, and relationships that validate the message. • The gospel is not merely information; it is life imparted (“this life is in His Son”). • Every believer joins the long line of witnesses, adding personal confirmation to the apostolic record. Living It Out • Guard the purity of the testimony by holding to the full, literal truth of Scripture. • Share the message with confidence, knowing the same Spirit who confirmed it in Corinth still confirms it today. • Let visible fruit—love, holiness, steadfast hope—reinforce every spoken word about Jesus. |
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