Celebrating Our Heavenly Father's Transformative Testimony

Summary

Today, on Father’s Day, we gathered to celebrate not only the dads among us and the gift of laughter through dad jokes, but also to reflect on the deeper reality that every one of us shares: the presence of a perfect Heavenly Father. I shared a personal testimony about my own dad—a man whose life of integrity, hard work, and sacrificial love shaped me profoundly. Yet, as meaningful as earthly fatherhood can be, it ultimately points us to the greater reality of God’s fatherhood and the testimony He has given about His Son, Jesus Christ.

Turning to 1 John 5:6-11, we explored the idea of testimony—how John, in his closing arguments, presents multiple witnesses to affirm the truth about Jesus. The Spirit, the water, and the blood all testify, and these testimonies are not just abstract or historical, but deeply personal and transformative. The Spirit of God bears witness within us, drawing us to the truth of Jesus in a way that is more than intellectual—it is spiritual, direct, and life-changing. The water and the blood—Jesus’ baptism and crucifixion—stand as physical, historical evidence that anchor our faith in real events, not just ideas. And God Himself has spoken, both at Jesus’ baptism and at the cross, declaring Jesus as His beloved Son.

But perhaps the most compelling testimony is the one written in changed lives. The world can debate theology, philosophy, and even history, but it cannot deny the transformation that comes from encountering Jesus. When the Spirit indwells us, we are changed from the inside out—our identity, purpose, and very understanding of life are made new. This is the testimony that each of us is invited to bear: not just words, but a life that points to the reality of Christ.

On this Father’s Day, whether you have a great earthly dad or not, you are invited to know and celebrate the perfect love of your Heavenly Father. Take time to reflect on your own testimony—what has God done in your life? How has He shown Himself faithful? And if you have never surrendered to Jesus, the invitation is open: believe, confess, and receive the life that only He can give.

Key Takeaways

- The Testimony of the Spirit is Personal and Present
The Holy Spirit does not merely offer abstract truths or distant memories; He speaks directly to our hearts, confirming the reality of Jesus in a way that is deeply personal and immediate. This inner witness is not about fleeting emotions or sensational experiences, but a profound assurance that answers our deepest questions about identity, purpose, and truth. The Spirit’s testimony is the living voice of God, drawing us to Himself and affirming that we are His children. [39:41]

- The Water and the Blood: Physical Evidence of a Real Savior
Jesus’ baptism (water) and crucifixion (blood) are not just symbolic acts, but historical events that anchor our faith in reality. These details, recorded and witnessed, serve as tangible evidence that Jesus truly lived, died, and rose again. Our faith is not built on myth or metaphor, but on the concrete acts of God in history, which continue to speak to us today. [46:01]

- God Himself Testifies—And Demands a Response
Unlike many courtroom dramas where the main character never takes the stand, God has spoken directly about His Son, both audibly and through miraculous events. This divine testimony leaves no room for neutrality: either we accept God’s word as truth, or we reject it and call Him a liar. The weight of God’s own witness compels us to examine our hearts and decide what we truly believe about Jesus. [46:54]

- Changed Lives Are the Most Irrefutable Testimony
While arguments and evidence can be debated, the transformation of a life by Jesus is undeniable. True faith is not just about new behaviors or beliefs, but about a new identity and purpose that radiate from within. When the Spirit changes us, we become living testimonies—witnesses to the world of the reality and power of Christ. [49:33]

- Our Testimony Matters—What Will You Say About God?
Each of us is called to bear witness to what God has done in our lives. Whether through words, actions, or the quiet strength of a changed heart, our testimony is a powerful tool in God’s hands. On this Father’s Day, consider writing out your own testimony to your Heavenly Father—reflect on His faithfulness, provision, and love, and let your life be a living letter of praise to Him. [56:30]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Father’s Day and Dad Jokes
[03:30] - Honoring Earthly Fathers
[06:00] - Testimony About My Dad
[09:00] - The Power of Testimony
[12:00] - Praying for Fathers and Missionaries
[15:00] - Turning to 1 John 5:6-11
[18:00] - Understanding “Testimony” in Scripture
[21:00] - The Spirit’s Testimony
[25:00] - The Water and the Blood Explained
[29:00] - God’s Direct Testimony
[33:00] - The Evidence of Changed Lives
[37:00] - What Is Your Testimony?
[41:00] - Invitation to Respond
[45:00] - Baptism, Communion, and Living Testimony
[49:00] - Closing Prayer and Dismissal

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Let Them Testify (1 John 5:6-11)

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### Bible Reading

1 John 5:6-11 (ESV)
> This is he who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ; not by the water only but by the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood; and these three agree. If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater, for this is the testimony of God that he has borne concerning his Son. Whoever believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. Whoever does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne concerning his Son. And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to 1 John 5:6-8, what are the three things that “testify” about Jesus, and how do they agree?
2. In the sermon, what physical events are described as the “water” and the “blood” in Jesus’ life? ([42:10])
3. What does John say is the result for those who believe in the Son of God, according to verse 10?
4. How does the sermon describe the difference between the testimony of the Spirit and the testimony of historical events? ([38:07])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does John emphasize the need for multiple testimonies (Spirit, water, blood) to affirm who Jesus is? What does this say about the nature of Christian faith? ([33:22])
2. The sermon says the Spirit’s testimony is “personal and direct and today.” What does it mean for the Holy Spirit to testify to someone personally? How might someone recognize this in their own life? ([39:41])
3. The sermon points out that God Himself has testified about Jesus, both at His baptism and at the cross. Why is God’s direct testimony so significant, and what response does it demand from us? ([46:54])
4. The pastor said that changed lives are the most irrefutable testimony. Why do you think personal transformation is so powerful as evidence for Jesus? ([49:33])

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### Application Questions

1. The pastor shared a personal testimony about his earthly dad and how it shaped his life. Who has been a “testimony” of God’s love or character in your life? How have they influenced your faith? ([27:38])
2. The sermon challenges us to reflect on our own testimony. If you were to write a letter to your Heavenly Father today, what would you thank Him for? What specific ways has He shown Himself faithful to you? ([56:30])
3. The Spirit’s testimony is described as a “flashlight in your soul” pointing to Jesus. Have you ever experienced a moment when you sensed God’s Spirit confirming the truth of Jesus to you? What was that like? ([39:41])
4. The water and the blood are described as physical, historical evidence. How does knowing that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are rooted in real events affect your confidence in your faith? ([46:01])
5. The sermon says that God’s testimony leaves no room for neutrality: “either we accept God’s word as truth, or we reject it and call Him a liar.” Are there areas in your life where you struggle to fully trust God’s testimony? What would it look like to take a step of faith in that area? ([46:54])
6. The pastor said, “Changed lives are the most irrefutable testimony.” In what ways has your life changed since following Jesus? Are there areas where you still desire transformation? ([49:33])
7. Baptism and communion are described as ways we give testimony to what Jesus has done. If you have not been baptized or regularly take communion, what is holding you back? If you have, how do these practices help you remember and share your testimony? ([45:11])

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Closing Challenge:
Take time this week to write out your own testimony—what God has done in your life, how He has shown Himself faithful, and what it means to you to have Him as your Heavenly Father. Consider sharing part of your story with someone who needs encouragement or hope.

Devotional

Day 1: The Testimony of the Spirit—Personal and Direct

The Holy Spirit is not a distant or abstract force, but the very presence of God who speaks directly to your heart, affirming the truth of Jesus in a way that is deeply personal and undeniable. The Spirit’s testimony is not just a feeling or a fleeting emotion, but a profound inner witness that points you to the reality of Christ, answering your deepest questions about identity, purpose, and truth. Even when logic and reason can take you far, it is the Spirit who brings the truth of Jesus home to your soul, shining a light on the cross and saying, “This is true—not just historically, but for you.” [39:41]

Romans 8:16 (ESV)
The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.

Reflection: When have you sensed the Spirit nudging your heart toward Jesus or affirming your identity as God’s child? How can you pause today to listen for His voice?


Day 2: The Water and the Blood—Physical Evidence of Jesus’ Ministry

Jesus’ life and mission are anchored in real, historical events—His baptism in water and His sacrificial death, marked by the shedding of His blood. These are not just symbolic acts, but tangible evidence that Jesus truly lived, obeyed, suffered, and rose again. The water and the blood serve as bookends to His earthly ministry, providing the physical testimony that undergirds our faith and reminds us that the gospel is rooted in reality, not myth. When you see the water of baptism or remember the blood through communion, you are witnessing the evidence that God has given to confirm the truth of Jesus. [46:01]

John 19:34-35 (ESV)
But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. He who saw it has borne witness—his testimony is true, and he knows that he is telling the truth—that you also may believe.

Reflection: As you witness or remember baptism and communion, how does the physical evidence of Jesus’ life and sacrifice strengthen your faith today?


Day 3: The Testimony of God the Father—Divine Affirmation of the Son

God the Father did not remain silent about Jesus; He spoke audibly at key moments, declaring Jesus as His beloved Son and affirming His mission. These divine testimonies, heard by many, serve as the ultimate validation of who Jesus is and what He came to do. When God’s voice thundered at Jesus’ baptism and before the cross, it was not just for Jesus’ sake, but for ours—that we might believe and know that Jesus is truly the Son of God. The testimony of the Father is a call to trust in His word above all others. [46:54]

Matthew 3:16-17 (ESV)
And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

Reflection: What does it mean to you that God the Father publicly affirmed Jesus as His Son? How does this shape your confidence in following Christ?


Day 4: The Power of a Changed Life—Testimony from Within

The most compelling evidence for Jesus is not just found in arguments or history, but in the transformation of lives from the inside out. When someone surrenders to Christ, the Holy Spirit brings about a change that cannot be explained by rules, logic, or environment alone. This new life is marked by a deep sense of purpose, hope, and identity that radiates to others. Your story—how Jesus has changed you—is a powerful testimony that no one can deny, and God intends for your life to be a living witness to His reality and grace. [50:44]

2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Reflection: In what specific ways has Jesus changed you from the inside out? Who in your life needs to hear your story of transformation today?


Day 5: Responding with Your Own Testimony—Declaring What God Has Done

Each of us is invited to respond to the testimonies we have received—of the Spirit, the water and blood, the Father, and changed lives—by declaring our own testimony about who God is and what He has done for us. Whether you have walked with God for years or are just beginning, taking time to reflect and write out your testimony is a powerful act of worship and gratitude. On this day, consider what you would say if asked about your Heavenly Father and His Son, and let your words be a witness to His goodness and faithfulness in your life. [56:44]

Psalm 107:2 (ESV)
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble.

Reflection: Take a few minutes today to write a letter or note to God, expressing your testimony of who He is and what He has done in your life. What truths do you want to declare about your Heavenly Father?

Quotes

The word testimony in Greek is martyria. And it is a legal term. You can picture a courtroom. It is, you know, evidence or testimony that can be submitted in that environment. It is a witness, a report, or evidence in a legal or judicial setting. [00:33:26] (00:00:20 seconds) Edit Clip

You might be here today and you need some faith affirmation. Maybe life's been difficult. Life's happened to you or things have changed. I, I don't know what's going on in your life. But maybe you need some faith affirmation. And that's, if that's you, then let these testimonies be that for you today. [00:35:05] (00:00:20 seconds) Edit Clip

Tim Keller once said that the internal testimony of the Spirit is like a flashlight in your soul that shines on the cross and says, this is true. Not just historically, but personally. [00:39:22] (00:00:16 seconds) Edit Clip

Our faith is true cerebrally. We can have that conversation. Our faith is true logically. We can have that conversation. But it is perhaps more true, more importantly true, I should say, on the deepest level we have, which is personally, spiritually. [00:40:19] (00:00:23 seconds) Edit Clip

The Spirit is pointing to your deepest identity, asking the questions, Who am I? Why am I here? What is the meaning behind this? What is love? What is beauty? What is goodness? What is the purpose of all of this? The Spirit testifies to the truth of who Jesus is, what the truth is, not just historically, but for you. [00:41:10] (00:00:27 seconds) Edit Clip

When John says that these three testify, the Spirit that we just talked about, and the water and the blood, which it says multiple times, you don't need to get weirded out. It is a beautiful picture of the life and ministry of Jesus, where his ministry begins with a baptism by water in the Jordan River with John the Baptist. And his earthly ministry ends at the cross where he shed his blood. Water and blood. Bookends of his earthly ministry. [00:42:10] (00:00:34 seconds) Edit Clip

God spoke up and gave testimony to who his son was and what he was there to do. This wasn't just like some account by a random guy in the woods who came out of the woods and say God spoke to me and here's a new religion that's happened before that's not what happened here this is many people who heard God give testimony about who Jesus was who heard it wrote it down and conveyed it to us. [00:48:08] (00:00:29 seconds) Edit Clip

Perhaps the greatest has changed lives because the world can argue with theology, I'm a pastor I've been to seminary don't I know it, the world can argue with philosophy, they do, the world can even argue about what somebody said in facts and all of this, you ever been on social media, but it cannot deny transformation. [00:50:52] (00:00:25 seconds) Edit Clip

Millions and millions of changed lives that wouldn't have changed any other way. We could have given them rules they wouldn't have changed. We could have argued with them and yelled at them they wouldn't have changed. We could have made new laws we could have moved them to a new country we could have done all these different things they wouldn't have changed apart from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit given when they confess Jesus as Lord that changes their identity from the inside out. [00:54:26] (00:00:27 seconds) Edit Clip