Why is eyewitness testimony crucial in Acts 13:31 for our faith today? Scripture Focus “and for many days He appeared to those who had come up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are now His witnesses to the people.” (Acts 13:31) What the Verse Tells Us • Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances were prolonged (“many days”). • The risen Christ showed Himself to a defined group—disciples who had traveled with Him. • Those same disciples are now “witnesses,” carrying first-hand testimony to others. Why Eyewitness Testimony Mattered Then • Grounded the gospel in verifiable history (Luke 1:1-4; 2 Peter 1:16). • Met the requirement of the Law—“a matter must be established by two or three witnesses” (Deuteronomy 19:15). • Supplied the church’s earliest public defense: Peter and John declared, “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). • Provided multiple, independent confirmations of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Why It Matters Now • Validates the resurrection as objective fact, not myth or metaphor. • Gives believers intellectual confidence when sharing faith—our message rests on historical events attested by credible witnesses. • Distinguishes Christianity from philosophies built on private revelation; the gospel invites scrutiny. • Demonstrates God’s commitment to truth—He ensured ample evidence so future generations could believe (John 20:27-29). • Encourages trust in the rest of Scripture: if God preserved reliable testimony about the cornerstone event, we can rely on His word in all areas. Practical Takeaways for Today • When doubts arise, revisit the eyewitness record—read the resurrection accounts side by side. • Use the historical footing of Acts 13:31 when explaining the gospel: “Those who walked, ate, and suffered with Jesus saw Him alive again.” • Anchor personal faith decisions not in feelings alone but in the solid evidence God has provided. • Let the example of the early witnesses inspire boldness; they shared what they knew to be true despite opposition. |
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