Reflection Paper

I. Introduction

In this twenty first century, it is imperative that Christ followers exemplify the One true God. Our individual and corporate (the Body of Christ) motives must remain pure, our testimonies sincere and convincing, and our actions loving, so as to attract non-believers to Christ Jesus. There is much to consider as children of God, as we step forward to fulfill the commands of Christ given in His Great Commission. True and convincing testimonies are vital, which is important in sharing His gospel. Also critical is our focus on maintaining clean lifestyles in exhibiting examples of Christ. Another area in which we must remain diligent is in the outreach of our local churches. Our churches must show the love of God within local communities regardless of what cultures, ethnicities, and religions exist within.

II. Section One

I heard of a woman who experienced a physical ailment for a long period of time. She spent a tremendous amount of money on doctors to help find a cure for her illness. As time went on, her condition subsided immensely. She did not hesitate to let everyone she spoke with know how outstanding her doctors were. She recommended them to several of her friends, a few of whom visited said doctors in search of assistance with their own disorders. Testimonies: we respond to them. We are in constant search for someone to help with our most pressing needs, and we listen very carefully to those who have found aid through someone or something.

In Mark 16:15, Jesus commanded His disciples and all followers to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” This command is known as the Great Commission of Christ. As Believers in Jesus Christ, our testimonies are one of the most important pieces of our presentation of Him to unbelievers. People are curious about what works for others in resolve of their complex issues. In his book Core Christianity, Dr. Elmer Towns says “God wants you to reach other people for Christ, and bring them with you when you go to your home in heaven.” (p. 139) John MacArthur tells us in his book Found: God’s Will, “There is a world out there that needs Jesus Christ. God wants them to be saved, and you and I are the vehicles for the transportation of the gospel.” (p. 15) Testimonies are our first tool in how God wants us to reach others for Him. They speak of how the Lord is changing our circumstances, our hearts, and our very existences. Our testimonies are tremendous introductory steps in evangelism, one of the two imperatives of the Great Commission. They are to be sincere, truthful, and encouraging, telling of what God is doing within our lives, despite trials and temptations. Through our testimonies, we are witnesses in sharing our hope and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. The goal is for unbelievers to desire the hope we exhibit,