(Abbreviation of sermon preached Sunday 2 July 2023. Watch full sermon here.)
Have you ever had someone ask you why you believe in God? How did you answer them? A “testimony” is an eyewitness account of how God has acted in your life, to rescue you through Jesus Christ. But how do you prepare a testimony? Is there a “right” way and a “wrong” way to share your testimony?
John gives his testimony in John chapter 1, verses 19–34.
(1) “I am not the Messiah.” (John 1:20).
John’s testimony starts by him confessing that he is not the Messiah. Phew! What a relief! Your testimony begins by realising that you are not the Messiah. You do not save people. Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus saves.
Reflection: In what ways can we act like the Messiah when sharing our testimony?
(2) John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness.” (John 1:23).
John found a Biblical character (Isaiah) who connected with his life story.
Reflection: Can you think of one or two Bible characters who connect with your life story? Share with someone which character or story you chose, and why.
(3) “Look, behold!” (John 1:29).
John then gets the hearer/reader to take notice. “Look, behold!” “Hey, wake up!” “Pay attention! Something new is happening!” When you’re sharing a testimony, you’ll need to get the attention of your hearer. This part of John’s testimony also points away from self toward Jesus. A testimony is not (merely) about you, but primarily points people to Jesus. The artist Matthias Grünewald depicts John with a distinctive finger pointing at Jesus.
Reflection: What are some ways you could get the attention of someone who doesn't
know Jesus yet?
(4) “The Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29).
John uses a word picture to describe who Jesus is. This is a word picture taken from the culture of his day e.g. the Passover and temple sacrifices.
Reflection: Brainstorm a few word pictures from our culture that explain who Jesus is.
(5) “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him.” (John 1:32).
John finally explains his own personal experience of God. Your personal experience may have been miraculous, but may also be simple or ordinary. Either is fine!
Reflection: How have you experienced God acting in your life? Start with some of the ordinary ways, and then, if you wish, move onto any miraculous experiences.
CHALLENGE: Prepare a short testimony using some of the elements John used.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father: thank you for sending your Son, Jesus Christ, our lifesaver who rescues us from dangerous seas. Give us peace knowing he is the One who saves. We bring to you those who do not know your peace yet. Give us courage to share our testimony and point them to Jesus. Amen.