“Do you solemnly swear that you will tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?”

In the justice system, witnesses’ words are unignorable. They saw the event take place. Not only are their words powerful, but their presence is necessary. Imagine how difficult judging a court case would be without any witnesses!

As Christians, we understand what the word witness means in the judicial aspect. But then, we transform its meaning when it comes to evangelism.

For example, one can say “Let’s go witness to others!”

While the term “witness” can be used as something that we do, Scripture uses this word as something that we are. Just as witnesses speak because they observed the matter at hand, we can testify because we have seen Jesus move in our lives.

You can’t witness about Jesus unless you are a witness of Jesus.

Before Jesus arose to Heaven, He reminded His followers who they were: witnesses.

Luke writes in Acts 1:8 that Jesus said, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Although not on Mount Olivet on that day, we are also witnesses. We have observed the Lord work in our lives powerfully. But how can we testify about what we have witnessed?

A common way is to testify what Jesus has done in our own lives is sharing our testimony.

Here’s a helpful framework:

When sharing with someone, it can be helpful to use a “before” that your audience can connect with. Consider these questions to help form this aspect of your testimony.

• Who were you before you placed your trust in Jesus?
• What consequences did this lifestyle have on you?
• What motivated you in life?
• What did you treasure most?
• How would you describe “the good life?”

If you were born and raised in the faith, you might find this portion difficult. Brock Anderson recently wrote about this exact topic here.

Second, we want to showcase the cause of change in our lives by articulating what we “believe,” the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Titus 3:4-5 has become a favorite passage when attempting to explain the Gospel.

“But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared, he saved us—not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy—through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”

This passage showcases the heart of God by mentioning His kindness, love, and mercy while saying that it wasn’t my works that changed my life.

But it begs the question, whose works did save you? The One who demonstrated His kindness, love, and mercy. In a clear manner, 1 Corinthians 15:1-5 articulates the Gospel.

By emphasizing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, you are showing the catalyst for change in your life. At the same time, you can display the same invitation available for them.

Lastly, showcase the power of the Gospel to save by explaining the “Because” in your testimony. For example, “Because I placed my trust in Jesus, I no longer live for myself…”

Consider these questions to form this piece:

• Because you placed your trust in Jesus, how has He changed your life?
• What is your new purpose in life?
• How does He impact you daily?
• What future hope do you have now?

In this last phase, a temptation to make much of yourself often presents itself. Intentionally showcase any life change as a result of Jesus’ mercy towards you through His death and resurrection, not works of your own. We want to boast in the Lord, not in ourselves.

If you feel any insecurity about your story, consider how your story makes much of God. You don’t need to feel as though your story is powerful. Your King is powerful, friend. Looking back at Acts 1:8, Jesus included that the Spirit would “come on us.” Our God is not only powerful, but empowering you to share your testimony wherever you go.

As empowered witnesses, we can boldly go and tell the truth, the whole truth, for nothing but the glory of God across the nations.