Scripture
Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now. And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent. Acts 22:1-2
Observation
Paul had been worshipping in the temple, when he was falsely accused of bringing a Gentile inside the temple. A riot followed. The captain of the Roman guard broke up the riot, and bound Paul with chains. Paul asked the captain for an opportunity to speak up and when granted, what does Paul say? What sermon would he choose to preach? He shares his personal testimony.
Application
Here is the greatest preacher who has ever lived, beside Christ of course, and what does he choose to say; his testimony. It is interesting to note that three different times in the book of Acts, the story of Paul’s conversion is described.
We are often tempted to think that because we don’t know all of the nuances of theology or have a complete understanding of doctrine, we are not capable of preaching to others about Christ.
I need to remember the best sermon I can preach to others is what Christ has done in my life.
Prayer
Lord, help me to remember that people unbelievers don’t need to hear doctrine, they need to see Jesus and how he can work in a person’s life.
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1 comment:
Would that we understand that when we are looking to buy a car or a boat or a set of golf clubs the testimony of others is as valuable to usas the experts. Consumer Reports may say it is a fantastic car but if my neighbor tells me he has had trouble with the one he bought I am far less likely to buy that model even if it is on sale.
The same is true of Christianity. If we don't show signs of it working in our lives, if we don't tell others of the God that has saved us and is working in us then others are skeptical to give it a try.
So let Christ do for you what only he can then brag about what he is doing as the woman at the well did, as the demoniac by the Sea of galilee did and we will see 100 baptisms where we see two or three.
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