7.5 Our Witness of Jesus
Our Testimony – Faith Strengthened by History and Experience

What do we have today that people in Jesus’ time did not, which should help us believe? See, for example, Matthew 24:2, 14; 24:6–8.

The testimony about Jesus is as powerful and important today as it was during His time on earth. John describes the miracles and deeds of Jesus not only to demonstrate His power but also to invite us to believe for ourselves and experience life in His name. Even though we did not witness the miracles with our own eyes, there are many reasons to believe in Jesus: the fulfilled prophecies, the spread of the gospel, and the ongoing work of God in the world and in our lives.

We live in a time where we can see the big picture. The scriptures and the fulfillment of biblical prophecies, such as the spread of the gospel or the challenges in the world, provide us with a strong foundation for our faith. Today, we can recognize the work of Jesus—not only in accounts of past miracles but also in the way His message has endured through the centuries, bringing hope and healing to people everywhere.

Our own testimony about Jesus may seem simple compared to the dramatic miracles in the Gospel of John. However, if we have experienced how Jesus gives us hope, forgiveness, and peace in our lives, that is a powerful testimony. It is not about the magnitude of the miracle but about the authenticity of our encounter with Jesus. Each of us can share this experience in our own way—whether through words, actions, or simply by living a life of faith that gives hope to those around us.

Our testimony about Jesus is a living sign that His message is timeless and powerful because it continues to change lives to this day.

The testimony about Jesus has a profound connection to our everyday life and faith because it shows us that faith is not solely based on historical miracles but on the daily experience of His presence and faithfulness. Unlike the people in Jesus’ time, we today can look back at the entire history of the gospel, recognize the fulfilled prophecies, and see how the message of Jesus has transformed the world. This strengthens our faith because it shows us that God’s work is alive and ongoing.

In our daily lives, our testimony about Jesus is often subtle and is expressed in the small but consistent experiences of comfort, hope, and forgiveness that we receive through Him. These encounters may seem insignificant, but they carry enormous power. By sharing these experiences with others or simply living a life of love and trust, we demonstrate that Jesus is more than a historical event—He is a living God who is still at work today.

The fulfillment of biblical prophecies and the continuity of faith through the centuries invite us to trust even in difficult times. Our testimony is not only expressed through words but also through our behavior and how we handle life’s challenges. Just as people in the past came to faith through miracles, we too can be strengthened today through our own testimony and the testimony of others that God is real and that His love remains steadfast.

Our everyday testimony, whether through lived faith, prayer, or words, becomes a light for others and a living expression of the hope and healing that Jesus provides. We are invited to show through our lives that His peace, forgiveness, and joy are accessible to everyone—and that He continues to transform lives today.

Our faith grows as we experience and testify to how God’s love and faithfulness touch our lives.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-blessed-are-those-who-believe-7-5-our-witness-of-jesus-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

November 14, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 18

¹ After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;

² And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

³ And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.

⁴ And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

⁵ And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

⁶ And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean; from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

⁷ And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man’s house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.

⁸ And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

⁹ Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

¹⁰ For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.

¹¹ And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

¹² And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,

¹³ Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.

¹⁴ And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:

¹⁵ But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.

¹⁶ And he drave them from the judgment seat.

¹⁷ Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.

¹⁸ And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.

¹⁹ And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.

²⁰ When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;

²¹ But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.

²² And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch.

²³ And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

²⁴ And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.

²⁵ This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.

²⁶ And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

²⁷ And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:

²⁸ For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Acts Chapter 18 depicts a significant section in the missionary work of the Apostle Paul. After leaving Athens, Paul arrives in Corinth, a bustling metropolis of the Roman Empire known for its trade, culture, and religious diversity. In Corinth, Paul meets the Jewish craftsman Aquila and his wife Priscilla, with whom he forms a close collaboration. This chapter not only highlights the challenges and resistances Paul faces but also the valuable partnerships and the spread of the Gospel into a new region. Additionally, the encounter with Apollos in Ephesus is discussed, emphasizing the further development of the early church.

Commentary

Acts Chapter 18 vividly illustrates the dynamics of early missionary work and the challenges associated with spreading the Gospel in a multifaceted social and cultural environment. Paul’s encounter with Aquila and Priscilla underscores the importance of community and collaboration in proclaiming the faith. This partnership demonstrates how shared values and callings can support and strengthen missionary efforts.

Paul’s shift in focus from the Jews to the Gentiles in Corinth highlights the strategic orientation of missionary work to reach a broader population group. This shift does not occur without resistance, as evidenced by the accusations from the Jews against Paul. Gallio’s reaction, choosing to stay out of religious conflicts, highlights the tension between Roman authority and local religious disputes.

The introduction of Apollos in Ephesus represents another step in the expansion of the Gospel. Apollos, equipped with a deeper understanding through Aquila and Priscilla, symbolizes the evolution and adaptation of the early church to new challenges and opportunities. His ability to steadfastly resist the Jews and publicly testify emphasizes the ongoing confrontation between the expanding Christianity and existing religious currents.

Overall, Acts Chapter 18 demonstrates the combination of divine guidance, human initiative, and the necessity of community and collaboration in missionary work. It also underscores the inevitable resistances and conflicts that arise when new faith movements challenge traditional structures.

Summary

In Acts 18, Apostle Paul’s journey to Corinth is described, where he meets Aquila and Priscilla, two Jewish craftsmen who had been expelled from Rome due to the imperial decree. Together, they work as tentmakers and form a close-knit community. Paul seizes every opportunity to teach in the synagogue, addressing both Jews and Greeks and pointing them to the Gospel. Despite facing resistance, he decides to focus his mission on the Gentiles.

The Lord appears to Paul in a vision, encouraging him to continue preaching without fear, as God promises him protection. Paul remains in Corinth for a year and a half until a group of Jews brings him before the Roman proconsul Gallio. However, Gallio refuses to involve himself in religious disputes and dismisses Paul.

After another journey, Paul returns to Antioch. Chapter 18 concludes with the introduction of Apollos, an educated Jewish teacher from Alexandria who passionately preaches in Ephesus. Aquila and Priscilla help him deepen his understanding of the Gospel. Later, Apollos travels to Achaia, where he strengthens many believers and publicly testifies that Jesus is the Christ.

Overall, this chapter showcases the challenges and successes of Paul’s missionary work, the importance of community, and the spread of the Gospel despite conflicts and resistances.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/14-11-2024-acts-chapter-18-believe-his-prophets/

7.4 The Witness of Thomas
From Doubt to Confession of Faith – Thomas’ Lesson

Read John 20:19–31. What can we learn from the story of Thomas about faith and doubt? What major mistake did Thomas make?

The story of Thomas teaches us a crucial lesson about faith and doubt. Thomas’ “see-it-and-then-believe” attitude reveals a temptation familiar to many of us: the desire for visible evidence and the tendency to place conditions on our faith. However, this type of faith relies on assurances that remove the need for true trust.

Thomas made the mistake of tying his faith to visible signs instead of trusting his friends’ testimony and believing that Jesus had risen. When Jesus actually appeared to him and allowed him to see and touch His wounds, Thomas was convinced. But Jesus responded, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). This statement shows that genuine faith means trusting even when we do not have all the answers or evidence before us.

Our faith should be based on what we know and have experienced about God—through the Bible, creation, and personal experiences—and not on constantly seeking new signs and proofs. God has given us enough testimonies of His love and faithfulness to nurture our faith. He also leaves room for trust because true faith can be a step into the unknown that deepens our relationship with Him.

Thomas’ story reminds us that faith is more than just seeing and that we are invited to stand in trust of what God has already shown us. Doubt is human and often part of the faith journey, but ultimately Jesus calls us to a faith that endures even uncertainties.

If someone asked you, “Why do you believe in Jesus?”, how would you respond?

I believe in Jesus because He is, for me, the perfect revelation of love, truth, and hope. His teachings and His life possess a depth and wisdom that transcend time and culture. Jesus offers a relationship that is not based on performance but on unconditional acceptance and grace—something I believe every person deeply seeks within themselves.

His sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection are, to me, the greatest signs of His love and His power over what limits us—even death. These events have changed world history and demonstrate that forgiveness, healing, and new beginnings are possible no matter where we stand.

Additionally, I personally experience His peace and presence in my life. He provides me with support and perspective, especially in times of uncertainty. Through Jesus, I have the assurance that I am not alone and that my life and the world hold deeper meaning and hope.

Jesus is more than a historical figure or a concept to me; He is a living, experiential God who accompanies me on a path of love, growth, and faith.

Thomas’ story and his journey from doubt to faith have a deep connection to our everyday lives and our own faith. Many of us experience times of doubt where we, like Thomas, seek evidence for our faith or place conditions on it. Doubt is a natural part of life and the faith journey and can help us seek answers and a deeper understanding. However, Thomas teaches us that true faith often grows when we do not have everything in front of us and still trust.

In daily life, this means that we can learn not to base our trust on external signs or constant confirmation but to build on what we have recognized through God’s Word, our life experiences, and His work in creation. God has given us numerous “signs” of His faithfulness and love—moments of peace, answered prayers, people who stand by us in difficult times, and much more. These are like “anchor points” of our faith that help us hold on even during phases of doubt and turbulent times.

Thomas’ story also reminds us that Jesus understands our doubts and meets us in our search for certainty. Thomas’ encounter with the risen Jesus ultimately led him to a profound confession of faith: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Similarly, Jesus meets us when we are ready to approach Him in trust. In our daily lives, we can bring our questions and doubts before God because He encourages us to trust Him despite our uncertainties.

The invitation, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29), is a call to a mature, enduring faith that sustains us in times of life when we have no visible answers. This kind of faith, which lives without conditions, gives us deep inner security and a relationship with God that endures even in dark times. Thus, Thomas teaches us that true faith is not about knowing everything but trusting what we have already experienced—and knowing that God is always with us, even when we do not see or understand everything.

Faith often means trusting even without visible answers because we know that God still upholds us.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-blessed-are-those-who-believe-7-4-the-witness-of-thomas-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

November 13, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 17

1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:

2 And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,

3 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.

4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.

5 But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.

6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;

7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.

8 And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.

9 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.

10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.

11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.

13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.

14 And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.

15 And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.

16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.

17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.

19 And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?

20 For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean.

21 (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)

22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.

23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To The Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;

26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;

27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.

30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter.

33 So Paul departed from among them.

34 Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Acts chapter 17 describes the missionary journey of the Apostle Paul through Thessalonica, Berea, and finally Athens. In these cities, Paul encounters a variety of responses to his proclamation of the gospel. In Thessalonica, he experiences both acceptance and opposition; in Berea, he finds an open and examining audience; and in Athens, he engages with philosophical thinkers, presenting the Athenians with the message of Jesus Christ and His resurrection. This chapter highlights how Paul navigates culturally and intellectually diverse contexts to spread the gospel and how different people respond to the message.

Commentary

In Thessalonica, Paul begins his preaching as usual in the synagogue, declaring that Jesus is the Christ. Some people believe, but the Jewish leaders become jealous and stir up the crowd, leading to the persecution of Paul’s host, Jason. This illustrates the resistance that the early Christian message often faced, especially when it challenged existing religious and societal orders.

In Berea, however, Paul and Silas encounter a more receptive and inquiring community. The Bereans receive the message with enthusiasm and examine it daily in the Scriptures, resulting in many coming to faith. Berea serves as a model for a reflective faith that does not accept the gospel uncritically but investigates it thoughtfully while remaining open.

In Athens, a center of philosophical thought, Paul is met with both skepticism and curiosity. He leverages the cultural context of the city, particularly the altar dedicated to the “unknown god,” to explain the gospel to the Athenians. Paul emphasizes God’s proximity and the necessity of repentance, speaking about the resurrection of Jesus. This leads to varied reactions among the listeners: ridicule, interest, and ultimately some conversions. Athens exemplifies the challenge of presenting the Christian message in a highly philosophical and culturally sophisticated society, while also demonstrating that the message of Jesus Christ can resonate even within intellectual circles.

Summary

In Acts chapter 17, Paul and his companions travel to Thessalonica, where Paul preaches in the synagogue and some people believe. However, an uprising leads to persecution. They then move on to Berea, where they find an open and examining audience that gladly accepts the message. Later, Paul arrives in Athens, where he speaks about the “unknown god” and proclaims the resurrection of Jesus. The reactions of the Athenians are varied: ridicule, interest, and faith. The chapter showcases the versatility and challenges of early Christian missionary work in different cultural and religious contexts.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/13-11-2024-acts-chapter-17-believe-his-prophets/

7.3 The Unwitting Witness of Pilate
Pilate’s Unconscious Testimony of Truth

How does Pilate’s judgment relate to the theme of the Gospel of John? John 18:38; 19:4–22

Pilate’s judgment is a powerful and simultaneously tragic testimony in the Gospel of John. Although Pilate declared Jesus innocent three times and even titled Him “King of the Jews,” he ultimately condemned Him to death because he succumbed to the pressure of the crowd. Pilate’s actions illustrate the tragic outcome when conscience and truth are subordinated to external pressure and fear of people.

This unconscious testimony of Pilate, who saw the truth yet acted against it, highlights a central message of the Gospel of John: the truth embodied in Jesus Himself stands among people, yet it is often rejected or ignored. Pilate saw the truth directly and recognized Jesus’ innocence and uniqueness—but he allowed fear and political calculations to guide him instead of following the truth. His decision shows that recognizing the truth is one thing, but having the courage to follow it is another.

Pilate’s example challenges us to reflect on our own lives: Are we willing to follow the truth even when it has difficult consequences? It reminds us that Jesus stands as the truth before us and invites us to follow Him—not out of fear or external pressure but with a pure and sincere heart committed to the truth.

What can we learn from Pilate’s example: What dangers do we face when we allow the mood and pressure of the crowd to prevent us from doing what we believe is right?

From Pilate’s example, we learn the serious danger that arises when we subordinate our convictions and conscience to the pressure and opinion of the masses. Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, yet he was guided by fear of potential unrest and political pressure. He chose against the truth that his conscience revealed and followed instead what the crowd demanded.

This story warns us against the temptation to conform or make compromises just to avoid conflict or gain others’ approval. When we allow the opinion of the masses or external circumstances to guide us, we risk sacrificing our values and integrity. We run the danger of making wrong decisions that could burden us later—whether through guilt or the consequences that result.

Pilate reminds us that true courage lies in standing up for what we have recognized as right, even if it is unpopular or brings us criticism. When we allow ourselves to be guided by the mood and pressure of the crowd, we lose our internal direction and can easily make decisions that neither serve us nor others justly. This story calls us to stay true to our convictions and follow what we recognize as truth—even if it means swimming against the tide.

The story of Pilate and his decision to condemn Jesus to death despite His innocence has a strong connection to our everyday lives and our faith. It reminds us that we often face similar challenges: external pressure, fear of rejection, or the need for social recognition can tempt us to compromise our inner convictions. Like Pilate, we can find ourselves in situations where we recognize the truth but lack the courage to act accordingly.

In daily life, this means that we repeatedly face decisions where we must weigh between the comfortable or popular choice and the choice our conscience points us toward. Whether in professional, social, or personal matters, Pilate’s story challenges us to live out our faith actively and hold firm, even if it means facing opposition or misunderstandings.

For our faith life, this means that Jesus invites us to remain faithful to Him—as the truth itself, as emphasized in the Gospel of John. He calls us to not adjust our values to external pressure but to follow what we have recognized as truth. This can occur in small everyday decisions but also in significant moments that challenge our integrity.

Pilate’s failure shows us the risks of compromise, but it also reminds us that courage and integrity can be strengthened by God. Faith gives us the strength to stand in the truth, and Christ Himself empowers us to live out our convictions and values confidently and steadfastly, regardless of others’ opinions. By trusting in Him, we learn to make our decisions less influenced by the mood of the crowd and more by what is truly true and good.

True strength is shown when we follow the truth, even if it means standing alone.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-blessed-are-those-who-believe-7-3-the-unwitting-witness-of-pilate-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/