How can we share the resurrection message like the witnesses in Acts 13:31? Settle the Fact of the Resurrection in Our Hearts • “He was seen … They are now His witnesses to the people.” (Acts 13:31) • The early witnesses spoke with confidence because they knew the event was real. • Fill your own mind with the same certainty: – Read the historical accounts (Acts 1:3; Luke 24:36-43). – Rehearse the gospel summary (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). – Trust the unfailing truthfulness of Scripture (John 17:17). Live as Those Who Have Seen the Risen Lord • Witnesses in Acts had spent time with Jesus “from Galilee to Jerusalem.” Their daily walk validated their words. • Our changed lives authenticate our message (Romans 6:4; Colossians 3:1-3). • Let resurrection realities—joy, purity, hope—mark daily choices. Speak from Personal Experience • They could say, “We have seen Him.” • Share how the risen Christ has forgiven, guided, and sustained you (Galatians 2:20). • People listen when testimony is fresh, specific, and humble. Keep the Message Centered on Jesus • The apostles did not promote a philosophy; they proclaimed a Person. • Focus on who Jesus is, what He did, and that He is alive today (Acts 2:32; Acts 4:10). • Avoid distractions that eclipse the cross and the empty tomb. Carry the Story Everywhere We Go • “Witnesses to the people” indicates a public, outward focus. • Leverage natural spheres—family, workplace, community activities. • Use ordinary moments: meals, commutes, social media, letters (Deuteronomy 6:6-9 applied today). Rely on the Holy Spirit's Power • The same Spirit who raised Jesus empowers our words (Romans 8:11; Acts 1:8). • Pray for boldness and clarity (Ephesians 6:19-20). • Trust Him to convict hearts (John 16:8). Use Scripture as the Foundation • Paul constantly quoted the Law, Prophets, and Psalms (Acts 13:32-37). • Let verses speak for themselves—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17). • Learn key resurrection passages for quick reference: Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20-21; 1 Corinthians 15; Revelation 1:17-18. Be Prepared for Opposition and Persevere • Many rejected the message in Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:45-46). • Rejection does not invalidate the truth. Keep speaking with grace and steadfastness (Acts 5:41-42; 2 Timothy 2:24-25). Invite Response in Grace and Truth • The witnesses urged listeners to repent and believe (Acts 13:38-39). • Present both promise and warning: forgiveness and life, or judgment for disbelief (Acts 17:30-31). • Offer the invitation clearly—“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13). Practical Steps for Today 1. Memorize Acts 13:31 and 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. 2. Write out your testimony in under three minutes. 3. Identify three people to share with this week. 4. Keep a New Testament handy (printed or digital) to read passages aloud. 5. Meet regularly with other believers for encouragement and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). By anchoring our hearts in the literal resurrection, living transformed lives, and courageously declaring the risen Christ, we follow the pattern of those first eyewitnesses and keep their life-changing message ringing out today. |
    |