The Power of Our Testimony
Acts 16:16-34
Intro. What does it mean to have INFLUENCE? According to Webster’s Dictionary, it means “to possess power to affect, sway, or modify the behavior of people.” A well-known professional golfer was playing in a tournament with then President Gerald Ford, fellow pro Jack Nickalus, and Billy Graham. After the round was over, one of the other pros asked, “Hey, What was it like playing with the President and Billy Graham? The pro said with disgust, “I don’t need Billy Graham stuffin religion down my throat!” With that he headed for the practice tee. His friend followed, and after the golfer had pounded out his fury on a bucket of golf balls, he asked, Was Billy a little rough on you out there?” The pro sighed and said with embarrassment, “No, he didn’t even mention religion.” We as God's people have influence over a lot of people The words we say and the things we do can influence someone either to accept or reject the Lord. WE MUST walk worthy of the Lord who bought and paid for us with his own blood.
Paul and Silas, here, are a good example of how we should present ourselves to this lost and dying world.
OUR TESTIMONY SHOULD BE:
(1) Of Courage-Be Willing to Speak out for God.
2 Tim. 1:7-11
PS. 107:1-3
*Paul and Silas went about the cities of Rome proclaiming the Gospel of
Christ, eventually landing in prison.
(2) Of Confidence-Taking God at His Word, believing He can can deliver us
from all evil.
Rev. 12:11
Dan. 3:15-18
*Even at midnight, Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises unto God. They
believed God could and would deliver them.
(3) Of Compassion-Really dedicated to God's work and seeing it carried
out and having a love for the lost.
Josh. 24:15
Text: Acts 16:30-34
*Paul and Silas shared with the jailor the plan of salvation. They had a love
for this man even though he was the one who had placed them in prison.
WHAT KIND OF TESTIMONY DO WE PRESENT TO THE WORLD? CAN OTHERS SEE JESUS IN US OR DO THEY DOUBT WE ARE CHRISTIAN?
Our Testimony should show forth Christ!