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What exactly does it mean to witness? Many people associate the term with street evangelism. But street preachers can sometimes alienate people, although the boldness of their faith is acknowledged by all. What really is needed for someone to be an effective representative for Christ?
John was one of Jesus closest associates. In this first chapter of I John, John notes several basic elements of how to communicate Christ to others:
- Our message grows out of our knowledge and experience of Christ (I John 1:1-4).
- We make clear to others what we have heard from Christ (1:5).
- We live out our faith on a continuous basis, not letting our lives contradict our message (1:6-7).
- When we fall short (as we all will, 1:10), we confess it, avoiding deception about our own life or Christs work (1:8-10).
Truthfulness, clarity, consistency, and honesty should be basic qualities of Christs followers. These are things that last in the eyes of God, and they matter the most to those evaluating the faith. We should offer nothing less.
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