How's My Testimony?

Have you ever had to testify in court? Have you given sworn testimony, borne witness to some event? The scriptures are full of references to testimony, testifying, bearing witness. Some passages, like John 5:33 and John 5:39 refer to reliable witness. The testimony given was reliable, truthful.
Both of these passages are in one of Christ’s longer responses to the Jewish leaders who had challenged Him. “John bore witness to the truth.” “The scriptures, which you search, testify of me.”

In John 3:11, in His discussion with Nicodemus, Christ pointed out that He (and the disciples) were giving witness and testifying of what they knew and had seen. Furthermore, He pointed out that this reliable testimony was not being received.

Of course, not all testimony given is reliable. At Christ’s trial, false testimony was offered against Him, but the witnesses contradicted one another (Mark 14:56-59)

Another important thought is that we, too, are witnesses. Acts 22:15 was spoken almost 2000 years ago, but it still applies to you and me: “For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard.”

What is my witness like? Where do you and I bear our testimony? As sure as a connection with Christ is to bear fruit in our lives, we are on constant display as His witnesses. Is my witness reliable, or is it in conflict with my claims? Do I claim to have truth, only to bear false witness? As people observe my actions and hear my words, to which spirit do I bear witness?

Many years ago, I was parked outside a mall waiting for my wife to return from a brief errand inside. My daughter and son were with me. While sitting there, we watched as a friend and colleague from the college where I was teaching pulled his car into a nearby space. He quickly left the car and headed for the mall door. It was a warm summer evening, and he’d left his car windows open.

Moments later, another vehicle pulled up behind his. A young man jumped out, ran to my friend’s car, removed something from the dashboard, and began to pull away, right before our eyes. I quickly pulled my car in behind him, and I had one of the children write down the license number while the other child confirmed what I read. I then returned to our original spot to await my colleague’s return.

A few months later I was subpoenaed and had to give my testimony in court. I was able to identify the young man, and was able to confirm under oath what I had reported to the police. The suspect’s attorney was unable to refute to my testimony, and his client paid the price.

It is so wonderful to know that when I face the heavenly courtroom, I will have an attorney who will be able to refute the charges laid against me; He'll testify in my behalf. He’s experienced; His testimony is sure. I won’t have to pay the price.

By the way – crossing your fingers while testifying doesn’t work.

Dr. G