John 15:26-27 CSB – [26] "When the Counselor comes, the one I will send to you from the Father — the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father — he will testify about me. [27] You also will testify, because you have been with me from the beginning.
As a young Christian, I had such a difficult time witnessing or what some call testifying to others about Christ. I was so afraid, and I felt like I was sometimes a salesperson.
In the world of practicing law, we use these terms, testify and testimony, all the time. It's simply when somebody raises their right hand and swears to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Thereafter, they are given a series of questions which they can answer in, often, a very narrative fashion.
If it's my client and I want the jury to understand about what has happened to my client, I give them an open door to tell their story. You see, oftentimes I have found that the most effective testimony is not simply answers such as yes and no. But rather a narrative about who you are and what your experiences in life have been. It is what actually makes a connection so that people can start to connect with you. To associate with you. To put themselves in your shoes and understand what your experiences have been.
Traditionally, I would always use what we would refer to as the Roman Road. A group of scriptures that would work to take me down a path of telling somebody about Christ and then inviting them to accept Christ as their Savior. For some reason, I never really found that very effective. Ultimately, now what I have found to be really effective is telling them my story. About my steps with Christ and about my walk with Him. About how He has intervened in my circumstances and steps, often on a daily basis. How He's come to my rescue in times of crisis.
I have never seen anyone turn away or start to use cross-examination types of questions concerning my beliefs. But rather, they would become interested in my story. Because it's not subject to cross-examination. It's my story that demands the attention of another. They can't prove me wrong, and they can't prove me right because it's not a declaration; it's my life experience.
Today, you have opportunities constantly to tell people around you about your stories and experiences of life. And if it's not natural, do it enough and it will start becoming natural. Especially when you see others show an intense interest in what you have to talk about: real life.
Today, read your Bible and be prepared to share verses, but try telling someone about your stories that have made up a real-life following of Christ. It is effective, and it will make a difference in the world around you.
It worked out pretty good for the original disciples of Christ. And there's good news: you are in the company of those original disciples. So, what's your story?
Stay healthy and have a blessed day!
~Dean Burnetti
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