In a court of law, eyewitness testimony has the power to influence both judge and jury. When the witness takes the stand, places their hand on the Bible, and swears “to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God,” their story of people, places, and events can alter the outcome of a case and greatly impact the lives of others. Witnesses don’t draw attention to themselves but instead direct attention toward someone else–– toward the truth.

Not only was John the Baptist a witness, but you and I are called to be witnesses too. Speaking to his disciples, Jesus says in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” To be a disciple is to be a witness. What qualifies you as a witness, however, is not your expert credentials, your moral rap sheet, or your public speaking ability, but your relationship with Jesus. If you have experienced his amazing grace, then you have something to say.

Witnesses have a voice that matters, a story to tell, and a purpose for eternity. You have a voice that matters because it is uniquely yours, gifted to you by the God of universe when you were woven together in your mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13). You have a story to tell, a story in which you are not the main character, but you are encountered by the main character and changed into a new creation (2 Cor 5:17). And you have a purpose for eternity, because God wants to use you to deepen and broaden the kingdom of heaven.

Reflection Questions

1. You have a voice that matters, a story to tell, and a purpose for eternity. Do you believe this? What might keep you from believing it?

2. Read the story behind John’s birth in Luke 1:1-25. What were Zechariah and Elizabeth promised? Can trusting God be a challenge? What do you find encouraging from this story?

3. Why can fear be so debilitating when it comes to witnessing? Read 2 Timothy 1:7 and 1 John 4:18. What is the antidote to fear? How does that comfort you?