Witnessing for Christ
Acts 1:8

Witnessing is a common term which is commonly misunderstood. "Ye shall be witnesses unto me" (Acts 1:8) is the simple statement of Scripture; but, tragically, it is terrifying to many even to think about it. A clear understanding will help Christians witness and enjoy it.

In order to witness one must have experienced something and must be sure of it. One will never be found talking much about salvation until he has experienced it himself and is sure of it. Paul could say, "I know whom I have believed" (II Tim. 1:12). No wonder he spoke of it.

When a witness in court is put on the stand, the lawyer must first establish his character. Often when there is a difference in one's practice and his profession, his mouth is sealed as tight as a tomb. In order to be a witness, a Christian's life must back up his lips. Paul speaks of "holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience" (I Tim. 3:9).

A witness must appear at the right place to tell what he knows. When God says "be ye separate" (II Cor. 6: 17) He is not advocating isolationism. Jesus ate with sinners in order that He might witness to them. Christianity is contagious; but if Christians quarantine themselves, no one will ever catch what they have.

Witnessing is simply telling what one knows and has experienced oneself. It' is not defending the faith nor defining doctrines nor denouncing the sins of the world. God has not called many to be lawyers, but he has called all to be witnesses. The blind man of John 9, now healed, did not know anything about the theology of Jesus; but what a witness he was when he said, "One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see" (v. 25). If Christians had the concept of simply telling about something wonderful that happened to them and how others could have the same, it would take away the fear of witnessing.

"Ye shall be witnesses unto me," said the Saviour. The chorus, "Let's Talk About Jesus," is a good admonition. Present Christ and you will never feel you are being rejected. I used to feel people were rejecting me until I learned this lesson. Witnessing is one poor beggar telling another poor beggar where to find bread.