How can we strengthen our faith when others doubt our testimony about Jesus? Setting the Scene from Mark 16:13 “And they went and reported it to the rest, but they did not believe them either.” What We Learn Immediately • Even eyewitnesses of the resurrected Jesus met disbelief. • Doubt from others did not change the truth of what those witnesses had seen. • Their calling was to keep reporting, trusting God to confirm His word. Expecting Skepticism • Jesus had already foretold that some would reject testimony about Him (Mark 13:13). • Knowing this ahead of time guards our hearts: opposition is normal, not a sign we misunderstood. • John 15:18 reminds us, “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” Anchoring Our Faith in the Fact of the Resurrection • The resurrection is the unshakable center: 1 Corinthians 15:14 – “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith.” • Because Jesus truly rose, our testimony rests on a historical reality, not on others’ approval. Practical Ways to Strengthen Faith When Others Doubt 1. Stay in the Word • Romans 10:17 – “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” • Daily reading reminds us of God’s reliability when people are unreliable. 2. Rehearse God’s Work in Your Life • Make a written list of answered prayers and turning points. • Revelation 12:11 speaks of overcoming “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” 3. Fellowship with Believers Who Believe • Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts us to meet together to “encourage one another.” • Shared stories of God’s faithfulness multiply confidence. 4. Memorize Key Verses • 2 Timothy 1:12 – “I know whom I have believed.” • Short, sharp truths steady the mind when challenged. 5. Practice Gentle, Respectful Witness • 1 Peter 3:15 – “Always be prepared to give a defense… with gentleness and respect.” • A calm answer protects both your witness and your peace. 6. Keep Serving • James 2:18 – “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” • Tangible love silences many objections. Scripture for Steadfastness • Hebrews 10:23 – “Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” • Psalm 56:11 – “In God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” • Acts 4:20 – “For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Encouragement from the Early Church • Thomas doubted (John 20:25), yet Christ met him personally; doubters today may become devoted believers tomorrow. • The Emmaus pair (Luke 24:13-35) moved from confusion to burning conviction when Jesus opened the Scriptures to them—reminding us to keep Christ-centered Bible study central. • Pentecost turned fearful disciples into bold witnesses (Acts 2); the Holy Spirit still empowers us to speak with courage. Living It Out Today • Expect some to say, “I don’t believe you,” just as in Mark 16:13. • Keep testifying anyway; God uses repeated, consistent witness over time. • Strengthen personal faith through Scripture, remembrance, community, and Spirit-empowered service. The risen Jesus remains the same. Stand firm, speak up, and watch Him confirm His word in His perfect time. |
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