Witnessing
In the Bible, "witnessing" refers to the act of testifying to one's faith and the truth of God's Word, often involving sharing personal experiences of God's work in one's life or proclaiming the gospel message. The term is rooted in the Hebrew word "ʿêd," which means testimony or witness, and in the New Testament, the Greek word "marturion" (from which we get the term martyr) denotes a solemn declaration or a witness to the truth. For instance, in Acts 1:8, Jesus instructs His disciples to be His witnesses "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth," emphasizing the global scope of their responsibility to share the message of salvation.Witnessing is not only about verbal proclamation but also encompasses a lifestyle that reflects one's faith. In Revelation 12:11, it states that believers "overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony," highlighting the power of personal testimony alongside the redemptive work of Christ. Therefore, witnessing in the biblical context is an integral aspect of discipleship, embodying both the declaration of faith and the demonstration of a life transformed by that faith. This dual aspect serves to encourage and invite others into a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Witnessing30
Anxiety Free Witnessing
By Judy Salisbury1.1K25:52PRO 2:3In this sermon, the speaker warns about the presence of false teachers and the need to be vigilant against their deceptive tactics. Jesus himself emphasized the importance of not being deceived and warned about false prophets. The speaker also references Matthew 24, where Jesus lists various signs of his return, but highlights the repeated warning to not be misled. The sermon emphasizes the need to carefully examine everything and be discerning, using a humorous anecdote about three women applying for a detective job to illustrate the importance of observation and discernment. The speaker also mentions the presence of compromise or ignorance in churches and highlights the persuasive nature of false teachers who use smooth and flattering speech. The sermon encourages listeners to be on guard and seek the truth.
You Are the Best Christian They Know
By Paris Reidhead1.3K1:04:07MAT 5:20MAT 6:33MAT 17:5JHN 6:5JHN 14:6In this sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to actively listen and learn from the word of God. He refers to the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 5, where Jesus describes the characteristics of a blessed and happy person. The speaker emphasizes the importance of humility and a teachable spirit, using the example of Paul and Silas in prison. Despite being freed from their chains, they chose to stay and save the jailer from punishment. The sermon highlights the need to be open and receptive to God's teachings and to be willing to serve and help others.
The Philosophy of Prayer.
By F.B. Meyer0JHN 15:26F.B. Meyer emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the ministry of the Church, stating that the primary task of ministers is to bear witness to the truth of Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension rather than to argue or defend God. He illustrates the partnership between the preacher and the Holy Spirit, likening it to a saw pit where both the visible and invisible work together in harmony. Meyer encourages ministers to recognize that their preaching is empowered by the Holy Spirit, which ensures that the message resonates deeply and permanently in the hearts of the congregation. He shares practical examples of how visual aids can enhance the preaching experience, demonstrating the importance of making the message accessible and impactful. Ultimately, he calls for a reliance on the Holy Spirit to transform lives through the testimony of Christ.
Waking Up America With Gospel Signs
By Roger Hertzler61642:47ISA 55:6JER 23:29MAT 3:2In this sermon transcript, the speaker expresses their initial anger and discomfort upon encountering a message about sinners being condemned to hell. They admit to wanting to destroy the message and avoid thinking about it. However, they repeatedly come across the message, which forces them to confront the reality of judgment and salvation. The speaker acknowledges that while some preach the bad news of judgment, there is also good news of a Savior who died for our sins. They mention a man who uses a converted rescue vehicle to display verses about repentance and salvation. The transcript ends with the speaker's struggle to ignore the message and their desire to forget it.
Being a Witness: How to Do It?
By Paul Washer5.4K1:29:462TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building relationships and taking the time to explain the gospel clearly to others. He shares an example of a pastor working in a Muslim country and highlights the need for believers to love the Lord with all their heart and love their neighbor as themselves. The speaker emphasizes the sufficiency of the Bible in addressing spiritual problems and encourages the use of scripture in helping others. He also challenges listeners to prioritize the great commission over personal desires and to use their gifts and strengths for the sake of spreading the gospel.
Expository Thoughts on Mark - Mark 5:18-20
By J.C. Ryle0MRK 5:18J.C. Ryle emphasizes the importance of understanding God's will for our lives, as illustrated by the man healed from demonic possession in the Gadarenes. Although the man desired to follow Jesus, the Lord instructed him to return home and share his testimony, highlighting that our personal circumstances may not align with our desires but are often where God can use us most effectively. Ryle warns newly converted believers against hastily abandoning their secular roles for ministry, reminding them that God can be glorified in various professions. He stresses the significance of witnessing to those closest to us, particularly at home, where our faith should be most evident. Ultimately, Ryle encourages believers to share their experiences of grace and deliverance with others.
Work in Order to Receive
By Andrew Murray0MAT 5:16LUK 6:45ROM 10:9Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of openly expressing our faith in Jesus, using the story of a little girl who could not contain her joy in singing hymns despite her mother's disapproval. He asserts that if Jesus truly resides in our hearts, His love and presence will naturally overflow into our lives. Murray challenges believers to fully surrender their character and reputation to Christ, as withholding our witness may indicate a lack of true commitment to Him. The sermon calls for an active and visible faith that reflects our relationship with Jesus.
Witnessing
By Rolfe Barnard72858:16ROM 6:1In this sermon, the preacher passionately addresses the state of the world and the church's role in it. He emphasizes the need for confession, prayer, and witnessing in order to bring healing to a sinful world. The preacher highlights that God works through believers to testify to lost men and women, and that their testimony is crucial in reaching others. He warns against hypocrisy and the loss of testimony within the church, urging believers to live a life that reflects their encounter with God. The preacher shares personal experiences of his own sinful past and the transformation he underwent through God's grace. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of a genuine and powerful testimony that can impact others and lead them to salvation.
The Word Is Central
By Theodore Epp0PSA 19:7PSA 119:9ROM 10:17PHP 2:15HEB 4:12Theodore Epp emphasizes the centrality of the Word of God in a believer's life and witness, urging Christians to study, apply, and live out the Scriptures in a world that often strays from truth. He highlights that the Word is powerful and transformative, capable of penetrating the deepest parts of our being and shaping our thoughts and intentions. Epp asserts that for others to come to faith in Christ, they must first hear and understand God's Word, which is essential for spiritual growth and right relationships with God. He reminds believers that they must first internalize the Word before effectively sharing it with others, as it is through the Word that faith is birthed.
Witnessing
By A.W. Tozer6.9K04:52ISA 6:1EZK 1:26ACT 10:40In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being a witness for God. He emphasizes that a witness is someone who tells what they have seen, heard, or experienced. He gives examples of biblical figures who were witnesses, such as Ezekiel, Peter, and John, who testified about their encounters with the Lord. The preacher also warns about a false cult that has distorted the meaning of being a witness. Overall, the sermon highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences and encounters with God as a way to testify to His power and presence.
Present-Day Witnesses to the Resurrection
By Samuel Logan Brengle0MAT 25:23LUK 19:8JHN 11:25JHN 16:14JHN 17:32CO 13:5COL 1:27HEB 6:5HEB 10:23HEB 10:36Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the necessity of being present-day witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, sharing the story of a young woman who, despite never having seen Jesus, felt His presence and committed her life to Him as a missionary. He argues that historical evidence alone is insufficient for true faith; rather, it requires a personal, transformative experience with the living Christ. Brengle highlights that this kind of faith purifies the heart and empowers believers to live out their faith authentically, making them effective witnesses in a world still plagued by sin and unbelief. He encourages Christians to seek a deep, personal relationship with Jesus, which is essential for both their own salvation and for effectively witnessing to others. Ultimately, he calls for believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit to truly know and testify about the living Christ.
Boasting of Christ
By Major Ian Thomas1.3K42:57JHN 1:6ROM 11:36Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the importance of boasting about Jesus Christ, highlighting that our role as witnesses is to reflect His light rather than draw attention to ourselves. He illustrates this through the example of John the Baptist, who pointed others to Christ, and encourages believers to share their faith simply and authentically. Thomas shares personal anecdotes of how ordinary people can impact lives by being a voice for Christ, regardless of their background or abilities. He reminds us that the Holy Spirit works through our testimonies to bring transformation, urging us to remain available and obedient to God's calling. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life dedicated to glorifying Jesus and sharing the good news of His salvation.
Lecture Ix. - Means to Be Used With Sinners.
By Charles Finney0ISA 43:10MAT 5:16MAT 28:19ROM 12:12CO 5:20PHP 2:15COL 3:17JAS 1:221PE 2:91JN 1:6Charles Finney emphasizes the critical role of Christians as witnesses for God, urging them to testify to the truth of the Bible and the reality of sin and salvation. He explains that the effectiveness of their testimony is not only in words but significantly in their actions and lifestyle, which should reflect their beliefs. Finney highlights the necessity of living a life that demonstrates the immortality of the soul, the vanity of earthly pursuits, and the love of Christ, as well as the importance of holiness and integrity. He warns that inconsistency between professed beliefs and daily conduct undermines the church's witness and hinders the conversion of sinners. Ultimately, he calls for a higher standard of Christian living to effectively reach the world with the Gospel.
The Great Search
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K50:07MAT 6:33MRK 10:45JHN 14:6ACT 8:26ROM 3:231PE 2:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeing beyond the superficial details of a story and recognizing the underlying principles. He shares a personal anecdote about a picture that initially appeared to be just branches, but upon closer examination, revealed multiple hidden faces. The speaker draws a parallel to the story being discussed, where many people only see a man seeking God, but fail to see the presence and work of God throughout. He highlights that God is the original missionary and evangelist, and emphasizes the need for believers to recognize God's seeking nature and trust in His power and grace.
Books in the Laundry ~ Witnessing Through Literature
By William MacDonald69209:54ROM 3:28EPH 2:8In this sermon, the speaker shares a touching story about a couple facing difficult circumstances. The wife is in the hospital with terminal cancer, while the husband has become blind due to diabetes. Despite their challenges, the speaker offers to visit the wife in the hospital and read scriptures and pray for her. The husband is deeply moved by this gesture and later asks the speaker to share the story at his wife's funeral. The sermon emphasizes the simplicity of accepting Jesus as one's Lord and Savior and encourages listeners to share their faith with others in subtle ways, such as leaving Christian books in public spaces.
Xx. a New Mission
By John Sung0ACT 18:1John Sung emphasizes the urgency and personal responsibility of witnessing for Christ, drawing parallels between preaching the Gospel and paying a debt. He reflects on the Apostle Paul's relentless dedication to spreading the Gospel, even in the face of adversity and personal sacrifice, highlighting that every Christian should feel a similar obligation to share their faith. Sung shares personal anecdotes and testimonies to illustrate the transformative power of God's grace and the importance of reaching out to others. He encourages believers to labor earnestly in their daily lives, integrating their faith into every aspect, and to be proactive in sharing the good news with those around them. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to evangelism, reminding that the salvation of even one soul is of immense value.
A Constant Witness
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 28:19ACT 22:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of being a constant witness for Christ, as exemplified by Paul's divine calling to share the gospel with all men. He highlights that witnessing is not just a privilege but a responsibility that must be fulfilled with eagerness and personal commitment. Spurgeon urges believers to share their experiences of God's revelation without reservation, reaching out to everyone regardless of their background. The call to witness is both a command and a promise, reminding us that our testimony should be all-consuming and inclusive. Ultimately, our silence in sharing the gospel is a perilous choice that we must avoid.
How Bright Is Your Light
By David Wilkerson4.4K59:36MAT 5:14MAT 6:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the darkness and despair that exists in the world. He mentions how people try to escape this darkness through drugs and other means, but it ultimately doesn't work. The preacher believes that God allows crises to occur in order to bring out the light and faith in people. He highlights the importance of Christians shining brightly in the midst of darkness and not compromising their beliefs. The sermon also mentions the story of three men who stood firm in their faith despite facing a fiery furnace, serving as an example of unwavering faith in difficult times.
The Word of God Is Living and Active
By William MacDonald0PSA 119:11ISA 55:11MAT 4:4JHN 1:1ROM 10:17EPH 6:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:211PE 1:23William MacDonald emphasizes the power and effectiveness of the Word of God, illustrating how it is living and active, capable of penetrating hearts even when met with disbelief. He recounts a story of a Christian student who felt defeated when witnessing to a skeptic, only to receive encouragement from Dr. H. A. Ironside, who advised to simply quote more Scripture. MacDonald argues that the Bible, like a sword, does not need defending but should be wielded confidently, as it can bring conviction and transformation. He stresses the importance of memorizing Scripture so that it can be readily available for the Holy Spirit to use in moments of witnessing. Ultimately, he reminds us that God honors His Word, and it is through the Scriptures that true change occurs in people's lives.
How to Begin Witnessing
By R.A. Torrey0MAT 28:19JHN 3:36JHN 4:7JHN 5:24ACT 10:43ACT 13:39R.A. Torrey emphasizes the importance of beginning the process of witnessing, highlighting the need to find individuals to engage with and to pray for divine guidance. He suggests starting conversations with direct questions about faith and salvation, using tact and kindness to open doors for deeper discussions. Torrey encourages witnessing as a continuous practice, learning from experiences, and ultimately leading individuals to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. He also stresses the importance of showing new believers from Scripture that they have forgiveness and eternal life, and guiding them in their new Christian journey.
Our Daily Homily - Acts
By F.B. Meyer0ACT 1:8ACT 2:33ACT 4:31ACT 5:4ACT 6:4ACT 7:55ACT 9:31ACT 10:6ACT 20:282CO 3:18F.B. Meyer emphasizes the call for believers to be witnesses of Christ, contrasting this role with the priestly functions of the time. He highlights that true witness-bearing stems from a close relationship with Jesus, which transforms us and enables us to reflect His light. Meyer encourages believers to start witnessing in their immediate circles before expanding outward, asserting that the Holy Spirit empowers this mission. He also discusses the importance of prayer and the continuous filling of the Holy Spirit for effective ministry. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a life of obedience to God's will, urging believers to recognize their role in the ongoing story of the Church.
Bold Witness
By Jim Cymbala99436:34MAT 28:19MRK 16:15Jim Cymbala emphasizes the call for all Christians to be bold witnesses for Jesus, highlighting the urgency of sharing the gospel with the world, which is filled with people who do not know Him. He reminds the congregation that the last command of Jesus was to go and preach the good news to all creation, and that every believer is empowered by the Holy Spirit to share their faith. Cymbala stresses that witnessing is not just the job of clergy but of every disciple, encouraging believers to speak boldly about their faith despite the hostile environment. He concludes with a prayer for boldness and the assurance that God will back them up as they share the message of salvation.
Witnessing Because of Fear
By Paris Reidhead1.4K40:21MAT 9:38MAT 10:16MAT 10:23MAT 13:38MAT 22:14MAT 28:19LUK 10:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Christians being concerned and compassionate towards others. He urges listeners to see people the way Jesus does, with love and empathy. The speaker also highlights the need for more laborers in God's harvest and encourages believers to pray for more workers. He reminds them not to be discouraged by slander or opposition, but to continue their witness and trust in God's timing. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Matthew 10:16 and Luke 13, to support these teachings.
Witnessing in Power
By D.L. Moody0JHN 15:26ACT 2:1D.L. Moody emphasizes the critical role of the Holy Spirit in effective witness-bearing, asserting that the Church lacks understanding of this power. He references John 15:26, highlighting that the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, will testify of Christ, and believers are called to bear witness as well. Moody illustrates this with the example of Peter at Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit empowered his testimony, leading to mass conviction. He stresses that without the Holy Spirit, preaching lacks effectiveness, and believers must study God's Word to align with the Spirit's guidance.
He Kindled a Few Candles
By Watchman Nee0MAT 5:14PHP 2:15Watchman Nee emphasizes the importance of maintaining a continuous testimony for Christ, likening believers to candles that should burn brightly until consumed. He illustrates that each believer's light can ignite others, creating a chain reaction that spreads the Gospel throughout the world. The sermon reflects on how Jesus kindled the first candles, including Paul, and how the Church has carried this light for over 2,000 years. Nee encourages believers to witness for the Lord, ensuring that His testimony shines perpetually. The call to action is clear: to keep kindling new lights even as our own burns out.
On Witnessing to Jews
By Art Katz0MAT 23:29ACT 2:23Art Katz emphasizes the importance of approaching Jewish people with humility and compassion while witnessing to them about the gospel. He warns against condescension and the need to challenge traditional Jewish beliefs without reinforcing victim mentalities or absolving them of their historical culpability in the death of Jesus. Katz argues that true witnessing involves confronting the reality of sin and the necessity of repentance, rather than merely seeking common ground. He highlights the significance of acknowledging the Jewish people's role in the crucifixion and the need for a genuine understanding of their spiritual condition. Ultimately, Katz calls for a bold and truthful presentation of the gospel that respects Jewish heritage while revealing the need for salvation through Christ.
I Have Yet to Speak on God's Behalf
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 5:14C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of openly sharing the gifts and truths God has given us, warning against the sin of hiding our faith and the light of Christ within us. He encourages Christians to be visible and vocal about their faith, likening them to a city on a hill or a candle on a stand, rather than retreating into silence due to shyness or modesty. Spurgeon urges believers to find ways to testify about Jesus, whether in public or private settings, and to use their unique voices to spread the gospel. He reminds us that sharing our faith not only benefits others but also brings joy and honor to God. Ultimately, he calls for believers to overcome their fears and speak boldly for Christ.
The Lord Has Need of You
By Edgar Reich84052:24ISA 64:6MAT 6:33MAT 21:2JHN 10:11JHN 17:20ROM 10:10ROM 10:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing what Jesus has done for us with others. He uses the example of Jesus riding on a donkey, symbolizing the need for someone to carry Jesus and share his message. The speaker encourages the audience to be willing vessels for God's work, whether it be in their schools, homes, or neighborhoods. He also mentions the prophet Zechariah and how his words of life should inspire us to speak the gospel. The sermon concludes with an invitation to a witnessing workshop where attendees can learn more about sharing their testimonies and ask questions.
Witnessing for Jesus
By Arthur Blessitt1.5K1:23:28ISA 6:8MAT 28:19JHN 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of being given an unexpected opportunity to preach during a movie screening. He uses this moment to talk about the importance of witnessing for Jesus and sharing the gospel with others. The speaker emphasizes the excitement and joy that comes from sharing the message of salvation, even in unexpected situations. He encourages listeners to always be ready to share their faith and to rejoice in the Lord, regardless of the circumstances.
Are You a Witness in Your City?
By David Wilkerson0ACT 1:11ACT 2:4David Wilkerson emphasizes that God transforms cities not through supernatural events or judgment, but by using ordinary people filled with the Holy Spirit. He calls believers to seek God earnestly in prayer, preparing themselves to be His witnesses. Instead of being passive and gazing at glory, Christians are urged to take action and engage in spiritual warfare with faith and power. The sermon highlights the importance of being usable by God and the impact of a bold witness, which can lead to either repentance or anger. Ultimately, believers are encouraged to spread the light of Jesus in their communities.