After Worship last Friday Night Ministry, May 3, 2024, I woke up the next morning thinking about testimonies that have been shared at the Anchorage Moravian Church and Friday Night Ministry. We have heard many positive and Christ glorifying testimonies over the last several years. Thanks for sharing.
Certainly we agree that testimonies that uplift Christ and draws people to the light is important. But, why testify? It might be helpful to relook at why we testify
Why testify? The Bible says, “Let the redeemed of the Lord say so” (Psalm 107:2-8) in order that they can overcome the devil by “the word of their testimony” (Revelation 12:11).
The position that the Alaska Moravian Revival Churches have taken is to allow testimonies during their worship. Most of what Jesus is doing (and has done) in the lives of His followers is unseen because it happens inside of them, in their innermost being. In order for us to “see” the incredible things that Jesus is doing in one another’s heart (and have the mind/perspective of Christ Jesus) we must be open, venerable, honest, and transparent with each other.
Certainly, it is good to encourage open-hearted sharing and personal testimony. What Jesus has done and is doing inside of you is too important to keep secret. God’s light shining in your heart is meant to be shared so that they will believe Jesus Christ is real. But I believe it is important to remember some ground rules for sharing from behind the pulpit.
1. We should always be ready to share our testimony: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” (1 Peter 3:15-16).
2. Remember that your testimony should always be based upon what the Bible says and edifies others in Christ. It should be less about us and so much more about Him. In other words we should not be the main character of the story. It should be about ones trust in Christ and emphasize the positive change He has made in your life after being born again
3. Concerning gentleness and respect, there are things that should not be shared from the pulpit, but only in privacy with the Church Elders and Pastor.
4. Never criticize others or other churches.
5. No need to glorify sin. We cannot speak of our past sin with a sense of pride. Believers will sometimes almost relish how much they used to drink, party, being a member of the Hells Angels, etc. This happens sometimes, because Christians have positive motivations for doing so trying to establish connections with unbelievers how bad they were before Christ redeemed them (Eph. 2:4-9)
6. Don’t preach at the listeners and remember the time limit! A message will be presented by the speaker for the Worship service. If worship leader stands up or stands near you, quickly conclude your remarks glorifying Jesus Christ.