In the book of Acts, the story of Paul’s conversion is actually told 3 times: once in Acts 9 and twice more in Paul’s speeches defending accusations against himself (see Acts 22:3-16 & Acts 26:4-16). The fact that this story is told three times shows its significance in the eyes of Luke and reminds us of the power of telling our stories (giving our testimonies) in witness and evangelism. Ps 107:2 says, ‘Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story – those he redeemed from the hand of the foe.’
Many of us may feel wary about evangelism, believing this gift is reserved for those who have been trained or who are evangelists (like Billy Graham and his son, Franklin Graham, who will be preaching at various venues in the UK in 2020, including Sheffield on 6th June) or feeling inadequate to this task, unsure what to say. The Great Commission, however, was given to us all (see Matt 28:18-20, Acts 1:8) and we are all called to ‘always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.’ (1 Pet 3:15) There is great power in telling your story, in speaking out to other people how you met God and what God has done – and continues to do – in your life. As for the training, if you are interested in learning more about how to do this, there is a training day for the Franklin Graham mission on Saturday 29th February at Maltby Full Life Church (9.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m.) which covers the basics of explaining the gospel to people.
Each one of us who know God has a story to tell, a testimony to share, good news to pass on to others. Let’s be excited rather than daunted about telling our stories and willing to tell others about the goodness and love of God.
