Empowered Witnesses: Sharing Christ's Love and Truth
Summary
### Summary
Tonight, we delved into the final installment of our series "Be Like Jesus," focusing on being a witness like Jesus. We began by revisiting the previous weeks where we discussed being a friend, a servant, and a leader like Jesus. Tonight, we emphasized the importance of being a witness for Christ. We explored Acts 1:8, which calls us to be witnesses empowered by the Holy Spirit. We compared the role of a courtroom witness to that of a Christian witness, highlighting that just as a courtroom witness is compelled to testify, we as Christians are commanded by God to share our faith.
We discussed the Great Commission from Matthew 28:19-20, which mandates us to make disciples of all nations. We are to share our personal experiences of salvation and new life in Christ. We also touched on the necessity of being prepared to answer questions from those seeking truth, as outlined in 1 Peter 3:15. The world is in desperate need of the truth that we, as Christians, possess.
To be effective witnesses, we must study the Bible, live a Christian life, let the Holy Spirit work in us, look for opportunities to share, and be ready to tell our story. We need to be diligent in our study of the Word, as it equips us to share our faith. Living a life that reflects Christ is crucial, as it serves as a testimony to those around us. Allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us empowers us to avoid sin and walk in righteousness. Actively seeking opportunities to share our faith ensures that we are always ready to give an account of the hope that is in us. Finally, sharing our personal story of how Jesus has transformed our lives can have a profound impact on others.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Great Commission is a Command, Not a Suggestion: As Christians, we are ordered by God to go and make disciples of all nations. This is not optional but a divine mandate. Our personal experiences with salvation and new life in Christ are powerful testimonies that we are compelled to share. [11:42]
2. Preparation is Key to Effective Witnessing: To be effective witnesses, we must study the Bible diligently. Understanding and memorizing Scripture equips us to share our faith confidently and accurately. Without a deep knowledge of the Word, our ability to witness is severely hindered. [18:00]
3. Living a Holy Life is a Testimony in Itself: Our lives should reflect the holiness and love of Christ. By living a life set apart, we demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel. This authenticity in our daily walk serves as a powerful witness to those around us. [19:36]
4. The Holy Spirit Empowers Our Witness: The indwelling of the Holy Spirit gives us the power to be effective witnesses. It is through the Spirit that we can avoid sin and walk in righteousness. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in us, enabling us to live out our faith boldly. [21:15]
5. Seek and Seize Opportunities to Share: We must be proactive in looking for opportunities to share our faith. Whether in everyday conversations or through intentional outreach, we should always be ready to share the hope that is within us. Our personal stories of transformation can resonate deeply with others and lead them to Christ. [22:27]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:46] - Introduction and Icebreaker
[01:12] - Recap of Previous Weeks
[01:54] - Be a Friend Like Jesus
[02:29] - Be a Servant Like Jesus
[03:32] - Be a Leader Like Jesus
[04:14] - Birthday Celebrations
[07:04] - Be a Witness Like Jesus
[07:46] - Courtroom vs. Christian Witness
[11:42] - The Great Commission
[12:45] - Personal Experience of Salvation
[14:07] - Answering Questions About Faith
[16:01] - Jesus as Our Example
[17:22] - Study the Bible
[19:36] - Live the Christian Life
[20:25] - Let the Holy Spirit Work
[22:27] - Look for Opportunities
[25:39] - Share Your Story
[31:04] - Conclusion and Encouragement
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 1:8 - "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
2. Matthew 28:19-20 - "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
3. 1 Peter 3:15 - "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; yet do it with gentleness and respect."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Acts 1:8 say about the source of power for being a witness? How does this power enable us to be witnesses? [07:04]
2. According to Matthew 28:19-20, what are the specific actions Jesus commands us to take in the Great Commission? [11:42]
3. In 1 Peter 3:15, what are we instructed to be prepared for, and how should we respond to those who ask about our faith? [14:07]
4. How does the sermon compare the role of a courtroom witness to that of a Christian witness? [07:46]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the Great Commission described as a command rather than a suggestion? How does this impact our daily lives as Christians? [11:42]
2. How does diligent study of the Bible prepare us to be effective witnesses? What are some challenges you face in studying the Bible regularly? [18:00]
3. What does it mean to live a holy life as a testimony to others? How can our daily actions reflect the transformative power of the Gospel? [19:36]
4. How does the Holy Spirit empower us to avoid sin and walk in righteousness? Can you share an example of a time when you felt the Holy Spirit guiding you? [21:15]
#### Application Questions
1. The Great Commission is a command, not a suggestion. How can you make sharing your faith a regular part of your life? What steps can you take this week to start? [11:42]
2. Preparation is key to effective witnessing. What specific plan can you create to study the Bible more diligently? How can you hold yourself accountable to this plan? [18:00]
3. Living a holy life is a testimony in itself. Identify one area of your life that needs to align more closely with Christ's teachings. What practical steps can you take to make this change? [19:36]
4. The Holy Spirit empowers our witness. Reflect on a recent situation where you struggled with sin. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit to overcome such challenges in the future? [21:15]
5. Seek and seize opportunities to share. Think of a person in your life who does not know Christ. How can you create an opportunity to share your faith with them this week? [22:27]
6. Sharing your personal story can have a profound impact. Write down your testimony, focusing on your life before Christ, how you came to know Him, and how He has changed you. Practice sharing it with a friend or family member. [25:39]
7. How can you be more proactive in looking for opportunities to share your faith in everyday conversations? What are some specific settings or situations where you can be more intentional about witnessing? [22:27]
Devotional
Day 1: The Great Commission is a Divine Mandate
As Christians, we are not merely encouraged but commanded to share the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. This divine mandate, known as the Great Commission, is a call to action that requires us to share our personal experiences of salvation and the transformative power of Christ in our lives. Our testimonies are powerful tools that can lead others to faith and help them experience the same new life in Christ that we have.
The Great Commission is not optional; it is a responsibility that every believer must take seriously. By sharing our faith, we fulfill God's command and contribute to the growth of His kingdom. We must be intentional in our efforts to reach out to others, whether through personal conversations, community outreach, or global missions. Our obedience to this command can have a profound impact on the lives of those who are seeking truth and hope. [11:42]
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who does not know Christ. How can you share your personal testimony with them this week?
Day 2: Preparation is Key to Effective Witnessing
To be effective witnesses for Christ, we must be well-prepared. This preparation involves diligent study of the Bible, understanding and memorizing Scripture, and being able to confidently and accurately share our faith. Without a deep knowledge of the Word, our ability to witness is severely hindered. The Bible equips us with the wisdom and knowledge needed to answer questions and address doubts that others may have about our faith.
Studying the Bible is not just about gaining knowledge; it is about allowing God's Word to transform our hearts and minds. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we become more attuned to God's voice and more effective in communicating His truth to others. Preparation also involves prayer and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to be bold and effective witnesses. [18:00]
2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV): "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to deepen your study of the Bible and better prepare yourself to share your faith?
Day 3: Living a Holy Life is a Testimony in Itself
Our lives should reflect the holiness and love of Christ. By living a life set apart, we demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel. This authenticity in our daily walk serves as a powerful witness to those around us. When others see the difference that Christ has made in our lives, they are more likely to be drawn to the message of the Gospel.
Living a holy life involves more than just avoiding sin; it means actively pursuing righteousness and embodying the character of Christ in all that we do. Our actions, attitudes, and relationships should all reflect the love, grace, and truth of Jesus. As we strive to live in a way that honors God, we become living testimonies of His goodness and faithfulness. [19:36]
1 Peter 1:15-16 (ESV): "But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'"
Reflection: In what specific ways can you demonstrate the holiness and love of Christ in your daily interactions with others?
Day 4: The Holy Spirit Empowers Our Witness
The indwelling of the Holy Spirit gives us the power to be effective witnesses. It is through the Spirit that we can avoid sin and walk in righteousness. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in us, enabling us to live out our faith boldly. The Holy Spirit guides us, gives us the words to speak, and empowers us to share the Gospel with confidence and conviction.
Relying on the Holy Spirit is essential for effective witnessing. We must be sensitive to His leading and open to His promptings. The Holy Spirit not only empowers us but also works in the hearts of those we are witnessing to, preparing them to receive the message of the Gospel. As we depend on the Spirit, we can trust that He will use our efforts to bring others to faith in Christ. [21:15]
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: How can you be more attuned to the Holy Spirit's guidance in your efforts to share your faith this week?
Day 5: Seek and Seize Opportunities to Share
We must be proactive in looking for opportunities to share our faith. Whether in everyday conversations or through intentional outreach, we should always be ready to share the hope that is within us. Our personal stories of transformation can resonate deeply with others and lead them to Christ. Being an effective witness means being attentive to the needs and questions of those around us and being willing to step out in faith to share the Gospel.
Seeking opportunities to share our faith requires intentionality and a willingness to be vulnerable. We must be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and ready to seize the moments He provides. By sharing our personal testimonies and the truth of the Gospel, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those who are searching for meaning and hope. [22:27]
Colossians 4:5-6 (ESV): "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."
Reflection: Identify a specific situation or person where you can share your faith this week. How can you prepare yourself to seize this opportunity?
Quotes
1. "To be a friend that comforts during tough times and a friend that sees friendships as a means to introduce people to Jesus, which will come into play as well tonight." [01:54] (8 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Set an example. Be a leader in the way you, in your speech, in your conduct, in your faith, in love, and in purity, so that if you are a believer, you can live those things out, and you can lead other people by example, believers and non-believers." [03:32] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "It is possible for you students to talk off the cuff and to share something from your heart that you aren't expected to share, that you're not sure what else. You didn't know what I was going to ask you after the names and school, maybe, but you can actually talk, and you can actually get in front of people and speak." [06:23] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We need to be like Jesus, be a witness like Jesus, okay? So, we're going to walk through a couple, a bunch of passages, so if you've got your handout, look at it first. The main verse we're going to talk through tonight is Acts 1-8. That's going to be our springboard for the whole talk." [07:04] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "As Christians, because we are witnesses for him, we have this personal experience with salvation. We have a personal experience of this new life in Jesus. If you are a Christian, you have experienced salvation. You have experienced a new life." [12:45] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "If we have placed our faith in the work of the cross and the resurrection of Jesus, we are saved, we're forgiven, we're redeemed, we're cleansed, we're new, we're a child of God." [13:16] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We are prepared to, we have to be prepared and should be prepared to answer questions from those that are seeking truth, seeking truth. Y'all, we live in a messed up world. Would you agree?" [14:07] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We need to be prepared to give a witness for what Christ has done in our hearts. Now, listen, Jesus walked this earth. You believe that? I said, Jesus walked this earth. Do you believe that? That's right." [16:01] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Study the Bible. Live the Christian life. Let the Holy Spirit work. And number four, look for opportunities. And I feel like I say this a lot too. But His witnesses look for and seek God-given opportunities and conversations and relationships." [22:27] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news. His witnesses talk with others about what Jesus said. What Jesus has done for them. How bad do you have to, I heard of magicians years ago say this, they're lost. But they said, how bad do you have to hate someone?" [25:39] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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