Read:
Acts 1:8; 8:26-40; 1 John 3:16-18
Reflect:
It is obvious that Jesus expected his disciples, and for that matter all of us, to become witnesses to his resurrection and the redeeming grace that flows from it (Acts 1:8). But how is this to be done? Peter reminds us to bear this witness with gentleness and respect:
15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; 16 yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. (1 Peter 3:15-16)
The witness we bear comes in two broad forms: there is verbal testimony in which we share the good news of Jesus and what he has accomplished; then there is the way we live our lives, our good behavior, in this world. There is the “talk” and the “walk”; and the two must agree for our witness to have an authentic effect. So we turn to two texts which illustrate each aspect of our witness.
In the encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian official (Acts 8:26-40) we learn a number of things about giving verbal testimony. First, the Holy Spirit is always at work ahead of us in the lives of others (as was the case with the official). We need to develop sensitivity to his prompting (like with Philip) so he can guide us to an opportunity for witness. Second, Philip did not force his witness on the Ethiopian, but asked a question (v 30) which led to an invitation to come onto the chariot and explain a puzzling passage. It is important to initiate conversation that leads people to invite further explanation for the hope we have. This requires a good deal of divine wisdom and courage, for every situation is different. Third, Scripture plays a central role in our witness. It is not our wisdom or insight that is to be on display, but the powerful Word of God must be given space to bear testimony to Jesus. Philip started from the puzzling Isaiah passage about a suffering servant and explained how this pointed to the good news about the Savior, Jesus (v 35). What this requires from us is a good knowledge of Scripture so we can use it effectively. Fourth, the whole encounter is carried out with the gentleness and respect that Peter advised. Philip was bold and truthful in telling the official about Jesus, but he did it in such a way that his questions were answered. There is, of course, much more to say about our verbal witness, but this example shows the good behavior that Philip practiced in sharing with the Ethiopian.
1 John 3:16-18 makes it abundantly clear that verbal witness must be paralleled with action. Jesus’ self-sacrificing love for us is held up as the prime example for us to follow in “laying down” ourselves for others. At the practical level, when we have the world’s goods and see another’s need we are to respond with material help to show God’s love. There are, of course, countless practical ways to help, whether financial, material, emotional, psychological or spiritual. Whatever form the need takes, the love of God prompts us to be specifically practical in the help we give. As verse 18 states so clearly, we are to not only love in word or talk, but in deed and truth.
The two ways of bearing witness are inseparable like Siamese twins. Can you think of some ways the Spirit has prompted and helped you give testimony about the salvation Jesus offers? What are some ways your witness has taken the form of the practical deeds you did for others?
Respond:
May we, like the early Christians, pray for boldness to be faithful in witness.
29 And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, 30 while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus. (Acts 4:29-30)