What role does personal testimony play in confirming truth, as seen in Acts 15:27? Setting the Scene: Acts 15:27 “Therefore we have sent Judas and Silas to tell you the same things by word of mouth.” (Acts 15:27) Personal Testimony in Action • The Jerusalem council had already written an inspired letter (Acts 15:23-29). • Judas (Barsabbas) and Silas were sent to Antioch to verbalize that same message. • Their eyewitness presence backed up the written word, removing doubts and guarding unity among Jewish and Gentile believers. Scriptural Foundations for Multiple Witnesses • Deuteronomy 19:15 – “A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” • 2 Corinthians 13:1 – Paul echoes the same principle. • John 5:31-32 – Even Jesus points to confirming witnesses for His claims. • 1 John 1:1-3 – The apostles declare what they “have seen with our eyes… and our hands have touched.” Why Testimony Confirms Truth • Validates the message: personal stories add flesh and blood to doctrine, showing how God’s truth works in real lives. • Prevents misinterpretation: live witnesses can clarify questions on the spot. • Strengthens fellowship: shared experiences knit believers together in common faith (Acts 15:31-32). • Counters false teaching: consistent testimonies expose error (Galatians 2:4-5). • Encourages boldness: hearing how others stand firm emboldens the church (Philippians 1:14). Living It Out Today • Share how Christ saved you—your story backs up the gospel you proclaim (Acts 1:8; Revelation 12:11). • When discussing doctrine, cite Scripture first, then illustrate with your own walk; people often remember the story that proves the point. • Invite multiple believers to speak when presenting truth in small groups or outreach, mirroring Judas and Silas’ joint witness. • Guard accuracy: keep testimony anchored to Scripture so personal details amplify, never replace, God’s Word (Psalm 119:160). |
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