The Jesus Way Session 6 – Bear Witness to His Reign

Introduction Jesus gives his disciples a task Jesus’ Spirit will lead, guide & empower us We are to bear witness by our words & actions that Jesus is the world’s true king

God’s heart for all people Theme of mission runs throughout the Bible, Genesis to Revelation –All nations blessed through Abraham –Israel a ‘light to the nations’ –After Jesus, blessing comes to the Gentiles Luke a Gentile; emphasises God’s welcome to all

The disciples in mission During Jesus’ ministry, disciples were sent out on mission –‘harvest is plentiful but the workers are few’ First Christians: –Speaking about Jesus –Radically caring communities –New congregations

Guidance from Matthew’s Gospel Our actions can be transforming (‘light’) Our words are essential (‘teach’) Followers of Jesus must both live in the light and also pass that light onto others – through words and actions

This sounds scary! Particular cultures have particular challenges Distorted stereotypes of Christianity Brilliant at ‘hiding our light under a bowl’ But: –God’s judgement is a reality –Sin is serious –We may be unpopular but truth is true

Examples from John’s Gospel Pointing to others – John the Baptist –honest about his limitations –told people to look instead at Jesus –added his own testimony Bringing people to Jesus – Andrew –helped people get in touch with Jesus –we make the introduction; Jesus does the rest

Further New Testament guidance Speak of our hope in Jesus Be: –ready at all times –full of grace –‘salty’ –prayerful –sensitive ‘one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread’

Finding the words Every person is unique Jesus promises to help us witness to him Yet be clear on key points Memorise some Bible verses Personal testimony is powerful

Conclusion All Jesus’ followers should be prepared to speak out the Good News Which are we going to be like? –Lake Galilee gives all its water away –The Dead Sea hoards everything it receives

Building-block 6 in following Jesus his way: Bear Witness to His Reign – Others Too Need to Come Under His Rule!