Witnesses

In their last meeting with Jesus before His resurrection, the disciples wanted to know if the time had come to restore “the Kingdom to Israel” (v. 6). In essence, they wanted information.

But Jesus told them that, instead of information, they would be given a new dimension of power “when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (v. 8). With this power, He called them to be His “witnesses.”

The Greek word here (source of the English word martyr) describes telling what they had seen or heard. In short, their mission wherever they went was to tell what had happened to them.

This also becomes our calling. This does not mean that it is wrong to seek understanding, or that God cannot increase our knowledge.

The fact is that anyone can be an effective witness. Anyone can share what they have seen and heard, what Jesus has done for them and the changes He has made in their lives.

Others may disagree with our conclusions and argue with our information, but they cannot change the reality of what we have witnessed. They can reject our testimony or question our perception, but they have a more difficult time questioning our sincerity, the conviction of our heart, and the confidence of our experiences.

What has Jesus done for you? What have you seen and heard? As He opens the door, prepare to tell your story to others.