What does Mark 5:20 teach about sharing personal testimonies with others? The Verse Itself “So the man went away and began to proclaim throughout the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And everyone was amazed.” (Mark 5:20) What We Learn About Testimony from the Delivered Man • Immediate obedience – Jesus said, “Go home…tell them what the Lord has done for you” (v. 19), and the man “went away” without delay. • Personal focus – He spoke of “how much Jesus had done for him.” Testimony centers on Christ’s work, not self-promotion. • Public reach – He shared “throughout the Decapolis,” ten cities, showing that testimony is meant for broad circles, not just close friends. • Observable impact – “Everyone was amazed.” Genuine stories of Christ’s deliverance stir hearts and open ears to the gospel. Why Personal Testimonies Matter • They confirm Christ’s power in real life, moving faith from abstract to concrete. • They bypass arguments; people can dispute ideas, but not lived experience. • They invite others to hope: “If Jesus changed him, He can change me.” • They fulfill our calling to witness (Acts 1:8). Biblical Reinforcement • Psalm 107:2 – “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so…”. • 1 Peter 3:15 – “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you…” • Revelation 12:11 – “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” • John 4:39 – The Samaritan woman’s story led “many of the Samaritans…to believe in Him.” Practical Steps for Sharing Your Story 1. Recall the before-and-after: who you were, what Christ did, who you are now. 2. Keep Jesus at the center; He is the hero. 3. Speak plainly, avoiding jargon; the man simply told “how much Jesus had done.” 4. Share wherever God places you—home, work, online—just as he went “throughout the Decapolis.” 5. Trust God for the results; amazement is His work, not ours. Encouragement to Act If Christ has delivered you, your story is part of His ongoing ministry. Like the healed demoniac, go and tell—someone’s amazement may be the first step toward their salvation. |
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