How can we effectively share our experiences of Jesus' work in our lives? Scripture Snapshot: John 12:17 “So the crowd that was with Him when He called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to bear witness.” Why Testimony Matters • God’s people have always “continued to bear witness.” • Our stories reveal Jesus’ power in real time, making doctrine tangible. • “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy.” (Psalm 107:2) Principle 1: Speak from Personal Experience • The crowd talked about what they personally saw (John 12:17). • “For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20) • Describe what Jesus did for you—salvation, answered prayer, provision, healing, freedom from sin. Principle 2: Keep Jesus at the Center • The news was not “Look at us,” but “Look at Him who raised Lazarus.” • “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us.” (1 John 1:3) • Highlight Christ’s work—grace, truth, resurrection power. Principle 3: Use Clear, Simple Words • Avoid church jargon with those unfamiliar. • Explain terms like “saved” or “born again” in everyday language. • Jesus’ miracles were plain to see; our words should be plain to hear. Principle 4: Be Honest About the Journey • Share victories and ongoing struggles. • Authenticity builds trust and points to continual dependence on Christ (2 Corinthians 12:9). • People relate to weakness transformed by grace. Principle 5: Live a Consistent Life • Credibility rides on character (Philippians 2:15). • The crowd’s witness matched the public fact of Lazarus walking among them. • Integrity keeps the spotlight on Jesus, not on our inconsistencies. Practical Ways to Tell Your Story 1. One-minute testimony: who you were, what Jesus did, who you are now. 2. Social moments: a comment of gratitude that naturally opens conversation. 3. Written notes, emails, or posts—brief, Scripture-anchored. 4. Hospitality: share a meal and weave in God’s faithfulness. 5. Crisis care: when others hurt, recount how Christ met you in similar pain. 6. Public settings: small-group updates, baptism stories, workplace chats when asked. Strength for Boldness • “So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord…” (2 Timothy 1:8). • “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and what mercy He has shown you.” (Mark 5:19) • The Holy Spirit empowers—He turned hesitant disciples into fearless witnesses (Acts 1:8). Encouragement to Go and Tell Jesus still raises the dead hearts of today. Keep the spotlight on Him, speak from what you know, and trust the Word that never returns void. Your story, anchored in Scripture, is God’s chosen tool to draw others to the Savior who called Lazarus—and us—out of the grave. |
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