Do you have a story to tell? Are you ready to give an account? We’re waiting to hear. It’s time to testify. Will the story refer to you, someone else, or God? Regardless, it’s your story to tell for it’s time to testify.
The Story: John 5:25-47
In John 5:25-47, Jesus explained truths that astounded the unbelievers. He proclaimed that He only spoke what God, His Father, said. In addition, He didn’t testify of Himself. His Father also validated everything He said. Jesus continued with proof from other witnesses.
First, John the Baptist confirmed who Jesus was. John the Baptist served as a lamp and pointed the way to Jesus. Although the existence and assignment of Jesus didn’t depend on the words of men, John was a witness. Second, the actions of Jesus corroborated that He came from the Father. Third, the scriptures spoke about who Jesus is and what He came to do. However, the presence of the witnesses didn’t convict the unbelievers regarding the truth of who Jesus is. Therefore, Jesus acknowledged that they didn’t believe the very scriptures they studied all their lives, and neither would they believe Him who spoke to them.
The Lesson
Although it’s time to testify, there are a few points to consider.
- To whom does our testimony point? As we tell our stories, do we focus on ourselves and how we orchestrate the chain of events? Do we give credit where credit is due?
- Were there any witnesses? Did your story impact anyone? Is there anyone to confirm your account?
- What’s the purpose of our stories? Are we looking for attention? Do we seek to encourage and give hope? Do we endeavor to transform the lives of others?
As a result, our testimony has an assignment. We determine what it will accomplish.
If you’re anything like me, the testimony can vary. Sometimes, it’s full of hope and points to Jesus while at other times, it’s full of the right now stressors and helps no one. Therefore, we need transformation so that our life and words reflect Psalm 19:14 – be pleasing to the Lord. If our testimony pleases God, then it will accomplish its purpose.
So it’s time to testify.
