A Nugget from New Life Network
Scripture for the Day (October 26, 2016)
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto the death. (Revelation 12:11)
What is it about a personal testimony that is so powerful? The Greek word used for testimony in Revelation 12:11 is “maturia” which means evidence given, record, report, witness or testimony. From a Christian perspective a testimony is usually a personal account of how you first met the Lord and dedicated your life to Him or some event that happened in your life related to the Lord.
I will never forget a function that we had several years ago in Orlando, FL. We were at a large motel and there were hundreds of people attending this voluntary Sunday morning service. We had everything planned. We did some worship songs, took up an offering, and had three couples scheduled to give short testimonies before our main speaker was to deliver the message. As each couple gave their testimony the presence of God grew stronger and stronger. Before the third couple could finish everybody in the audience and back stage were in tears. The production manager looked at me and I looked at him and we decided right there to cut the main speaker and have an altar call. Many people were saved that day! It was powerful!
Sometimes a personal testimony can reach more people than a great polished sermon. That is why the enemy has always attempted (and still is attempting) to shut the mouths of people who talk about what they have seen and heard. Consider the following scriptures:
Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. (Luke 7:22)
For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. (Acts 4:20)
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. (1 John 1:3)
Where did this testimonial type preaching originate? Well, surprise, surprise! It started with Jesus himself.
He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. (John 3:31-33)
It was personal testimonies that built the Church. It is personal testimonies that are still building the church. We overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. Always be prepared to share your testimony.
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: (1 Peter 3:15)
